suboptimal

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.

“In the past, celebrity endorsements have often pushed people toward suboptimal financial products,” said Adam Rust, director of financial services at the Consumer Federation of America, an association of nonprofit consumer organizations.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

It’s just that sometimes it’s optimal to be suboptimal.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

Rather, it is likely a combination of perverse incentives and suboptimal policies.

From Barron's • Nov. 26, 2025

There were some things resulting from that that were suboptimal for the rest of the weekend.

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

“You’re not feeble. You merely had a suboptimal moment. I’m sure you’ll be optimal from now on.”

From "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart