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Definitions

suboptimal

[suhb-op-tuh-muhl] / sʌbˈɒp tə məl /


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.

Italy's second-biggest bank decided to make the move "because we felt that to continue to stall was a suboptimal situation for both," he told analysts on a call.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026

Without fiduciaries serving as a buffer between the participant and the market, investments will be suboptimal.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 10, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

"Many older adults in suboptimal health often continue to make valuable contributions to those around them," Han said, "and they also may be the ones to especially benefit from being provided with opportunities to help."

From Science Daily • Dec. 19, 2025

“Why say suboptimal? Why not say what you really are? Thoughtless and confusing and manipulative?”

From "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart