Learn English – What would be a word for a product that is below the expected level of quality

word-request

I am wondering if there is a word for a product that does not meet the expected quality. Something like a 'below average product', but that does not feel correct so I was hoping for a better word.

In this specific case it is about a refurbished product, which is sold for a lower price than the regular product. So it is the same product (it is even tested to comply with standards), which could retail for a slightly lower price.

In context it could be something like this:

People assumed that the refurbished product was of ___ quality.

What would be a word for a product that is below the expected level of quality?

Best Answer

I think the word substandard might be a good fit. Some official definitions of this word include:

  • Failing to meet a standard; below standard.
  • Of inferior quality; not meeting the minimum quality requirements.
  • Less than the normal standard.
  • falling short of some prescribed norm
  • below the usual or required standard (link)

As an example usage, blogger Christopher Scott wrote:

Operating a business based on hiring and employing the lowest-cost worker, however, usually results in substandard products.

Related Topic