Definition

Not as good as the best possible; not ideal.

Example

The team's performance was suboptimal, leading to a disappointing result.

Conversation

I think this plan is a bit suboptimal for our project.

Yeah, I noticed that too; we might need to rethink it.

What do you suggest we change to make it better?

How about we brainstorm some new ideas to improve the suboptimal parts?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Suboptimal → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "optimal" (from Latin "optimus", meaning best). The word "suboptimal" refers to something that is below the best or not the most favorable condition.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') the 'best' ('optimal') — that's why suboptimal means not the best.

Visually Confused Words