Looking for synonyms for low quality? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say low quality.
- Inferior
- Substandard
- Poor
- Second-rate
- Mediocre
- Subpar
- Deficient
- Shoddy
- Third-rate
- Low-grade
- Cheap
- Unsatisfactory
- Suboptimal
- Below average
- Inadequate
- Faulty
- Lackluster
- Unimpressive
- Compromised
- Unacceptable
Want to learn how to say low quality professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Inferior
“Inferior” is used to describe something of lower quality or standard.
Example: “The materials used in these products are inferior compared to our previous supplier.”
2. Substandard
“Substandard” refers to something that falls below a set standard or expectation.
Example: “The substandard performance of the software has led to customer complaints.”
3. Poor
“Poor” is a general term for something that lacks quality or is unsatisfactory.
Example: “The poor craftsmanship of the furniture was evident in its wobbly legs.”
4. Second-Rate
“Second-rate” suggests something is of average or below-average quality.
Example: “The project results were second-rate and did not meet our usual standards of excellence.”
5. Mediocre
“Mediocre” is used for something that is only of moderate quality or not very good.
Example: “The service at the restaurant was mediocre, neither outstanding nor terrible.”
6. Subpar
“Subpar” implies something is below an acceptable or average level.
Example: “The report you submitted was subpar and needs significant improvement.”
7. Deficient
“Deficient” suggests something is lacking in quality or quantity.
Example: “The deficient resources allocated to the department hampered its progress.”
8. Shoddy
“Shoddy” refers to something made or done poorly or carelessly.
Example: “The shoddy construction of the building led to structural problems.”
9. Third-Rate
“Third-rate” indicates something is of very poor quality.
Example: “The third-rate equipment in the office frequently malfunctions.”
10. Low-Grade
“Low-grade” refers to something of inferior quality or lower rank.
Example: “The low-grade materials used in production resulted in a less durable product.”
11. Cheap
“Cheap” often implies something is low in cost and quality.
Example: “The cheap components used in these electronics make them prone to breakage.”
12. Unsatisfactory
“Unsatisfactory” is used for something that does not meet expectations or standards.
Example: “The unsatisfactory results of the campaign prompted a reevaluation of our marketing strategy.”
13. Suboptimal
“Suboptimal” suggests something is below the best possible standard or level.
Example: “The suboptimal performance of the team this quarter was a concern for management.”
14. Below Average
“Below average” indicates something is not reaching the usual or expected standard.
Example: “The sales figures for this quarter were below average, indicating a need for a new approach.”
15. Inadequate
“Inadequate” implies something is not sufficient or satisfactory in quality.
Example: “The inadequate training provided to new hires resulted in a lack of preparedness.”
16. Faulty
“Faulty” is used for something that has defects or is malfunctioning.
Example: “The product was recalled due to faulty wiring that posed a safety risk.”
17. Lackluster
“Lackluster” suggests something is lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; uninspired.
Example: “The presentation was lackluster and failed to engage the audience.”
18. Unimpressive
“Unimpressive” refers to something that fails to make a positive impact or evoke admiration.
Example: “The unimpressive design of the brochure did not effectively convey the brand’s message.”
19. Compromised
“Compromised” is used to describe something that has been negatively affected in quality or integrity.
Example: “The compromised data integrity led to questions about the research’s validity.”
20. Unacceptable
“Unacceptable” denotes something that is so poor in quality that it cannot be tolerated.
Example: “The level of service we received was unacceptable and not in line with what was promised.”
