What Is Another Way to Say “Below Average”?

Looking for synonyms for below average? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say below average.

  • Subpar
  • Mediocre
  • Inferior
  • Deficient
  • Inadequate
  • Substandard
  • Unsatisfactory
  • Lackluster
  • Poor
  • Underwhelming
  • Second-rate
  • Unexceptional
  • Wanting
  • Insufficient
  • Not up to par
  • Below par
  • Less-than-stellar
  • Unimpressive
  • Weak
  • Undistinguished

Want to learn how to say below average professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Subpar

Used to describe performance or quality that is below the expected standard.
Example: “The project’s results were subpar, failing to meet the established benchmarks.”

2. Mediocre

Appropriate for something that is of only average quality and not very good.
Example: “The team’s mediocre performance this quarter reflects a need for improved strategies.”

3. Inferior

Used to describe something that is lower in quality compared to others.
Example: “The inferior materials used in production led to a higher rate of product defects.”

4. Deficient

Suitable for something that is lacking in some necessary quality or element.
Example: “The proposal was deficient in its detail, making it difficult to approve.”

5. Inadequate

Used when something is not sufficient or satisfactory in quality or quantity.
Example: “The inadequate market research led to poorly informed business decisions.”

6. Substandard

Appropriate for something that falls below the required or desired standard.
Example: “The substandard performance of the new software has led to customer complaints.”

7. Unsatisfactory

Used for something that does not meet the required standards or expectations.
Example: “The unsatisfactory sales figures indicate a need to revamp our marketing approach.”

8. Lackluster

Ideal for describing something that is not shiny, brilliant, or lively; dull.
Example: “The lackluster presentation failed to impress the potential investors.”

9. Poor

Suitable for describing something of low quality or a low standard.
Example: “The poor communication between departments is affecting overall efficiency.”

10. Underwhelming

Used when something is less impressive or less effective than expected.
Example: “The product launch was underwhelming, resulting in lower than expected sales.”

11. Second-rate

Appropriate for something that is considered inferior in quality; not top-tier.
Example: “The second-rate technology used in the project hampered its success.”

12. Unexceptional

Used for something that is not unusually good, special, or noteworthy; average.
Example: “The unexceptional results of the campaign call for a more creative approach next time.”

13. Wanting

Suitable when something is lacking or deficient in some respect.
Example: “The report is wanting in thorough analysis and detailed data.”

14. Insufficient

Used to describe when something is not enough; inadequate.
Example: “The insufficient funding has put a strain on the project’s progress.”

15. Not up to par

Appropriate for something that doesn’t meet the usual or expected standard.
Example: “The recent output from the team is not up to par with our company’s standards.”

16. Below par

Used for something that is below an average or normal level.
Example: “The below par performance of the sales team this month is concerning.”

17. Less-than-stellar

Suitable for describing something that is not outstanding or excellent.
Example: “The less-than-stellar feedback from clients suggests a need for product improvement.”

18. Unimpressive

Used when something fails to impress; not remarkable or striking.
Example: “The unimpressive results of the survey show a lack of enthusiasm for the new policy.”

19. Weak

Appropriate for something that lacks strength, vigor, or effectiveness.
Example: “The weak market position of the company indicates a need for strategic changes.”

20. Undistinguished

Used to describe something that is not very successful, famous, or noticeable.
Example: “The undistinguished record of the department calls for a comprehensive review and restructuring.”

Linda Brown