German word

optimal

Pronunciation

IPA/ɔptiˈmaːl/

Meaning

  • adjectivebest

Example

Wir suchen die optimale Lösung.

We are looking for the best solution.

Illustration for optimal (best)

More examples

Wir arbeiten unter optimalen Bedingungen.

We are working under optimal conditions.

Core concept

A carefully adjusted solution that leaves no better practical choice.

Common phrases

  • die optimale Lösung

    the optimal solution

  • unter optimalen Bedingungen

    under optimal conditions

  • zum optimalen Zeitpunkt

    at the optimal time

Similar words

ideal: Fully matching the desired conditions or expectations.
perfekt: Complete and free from any noticeable flaw.
geeignet: Suitable for a particular purpose or situation.
ausgezeichnet: Of exceptionally high quality or merit.

Definition in German

so beschaffen, dass etwas das bestmögliche Ergebnis bringt

Word origin

The adjective derives from Latin optimus, the superlative of bonus, meaning "good", and entered German as a learned borrowing.

Usage tips

  • The forms optimaler and am optimalsten occur, but besser and am besten are often more idiomatic for ordinary comparisons.

Other meanings

  • idealadjective

Opposites

  • suboptimalsuboptimaladjective
  • mangelhaftinadequateadjective

Related words

  • Optimierungoptimizationnoun
  • optimierenoptimizeverb
  • optimalerweiseoptimallyadverb

Word lists with this word