C1adjectiveformalbusinessscience
US/ˈɑːp.tə.məl/
UK/ˈɒp.tɪ.məl/
best possible in a particular situation, giving the most favorable result
In context
The software finds the optimal route for each delivery driver every morning.
Plants need optimal light and temperature to grow at their fastest rate.
The manager hopes to reach an optimal balance between cost and quality.
Words that go with optimal
adjective + noun
- optimal levelKeep the temperature at an optimal level.
- optimal solutionThere may be no single optimal solution to the problem.
- optimal conditionsThe seeds grow best in optimal conditions.
- optimal useOptimal use of space cuts storage costs.
- optimal performanceRegular servicing ensures optimal performance of the machines.
- optimal balanceFinding the optimal balance takes time.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
the most optimalCorrect: the optimal