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Synonyms

subpar

American  
[suhb-pahr] / sʌbˈpɑr /

adjective

  1. below an average, usual, or normal level, quality, or the like; below par.

    This month his performance has been subpar.

Etymology

Origin of subpar

First recorded in 1895–1900; sub- ( def. ) + par 1 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Occidental underperformance highlights Berkshire’s generally subpar U.S. stock picking—new buys and sells—over the past six or seven years.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

DBS raises its target price to HK$88.00 from HK$75.00 but maintains a hold rating on the company’s likely subpar margins.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

Live boxing and live auto racing deliver palpable electricity with subpar sightlines.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

At the end of the interview, when they ask if you have any questions for them, this is when you can circle back to that subpar answer.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 16, 2026

“Yeah,” Lydia said, “but another year is a long time to eat subpar pizza.”

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.