Definition

The process of optimizing a smaller part of a larger system or organization, often at the expense of the overall efficiency or effectiveness.

Example

The company's focus on suboptimization led to improvements in individual departments, but overall performance suffered.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the concept of suboptimization?

Yeah, it's when a part of an organization is optimized but the whole suffers, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how focusing too much on one area can lead to problems elsewhere.

Definitely, balancing everything is key to avoid suboptimization.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Suboptimization → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "optimum" (from Latin "optimum", meaning the best). The word refers to a situation where something is optimized to a lesser degree than the best possible outcome, hence being under the best.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'under' ('sub-') the 'best' ('optimum') — that's why suboptimization means not achieving the best possible result.

Visually Confused Words