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 crisis moments, people tend to make suboptimal decisions,” said Shah.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

Relying on yuan appreciation to narrow the trade surplus may be a suboptimal strategy for Beijing, economists say.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 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

Sticking with some fixed percentage just felt wrong and suboptimal to me.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 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