suboptimal

[suhb-op-tuh-muhl] / sʌbˈɒp tə məl /

ADJECTIVE

below the standard

Synonyms

STRONGEST

substandard

STRONG

subprime

WEAK

insignificant minimal negligible paltry piddling trifling trivial

Antonyms

STRONGEST

excellent flawless highest ideal optimal superlative

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

"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

Also in support was Saban’s fellow commentator Kirk Herbstreit, who at least acknowledged the situation would be suboptimal, but felt Kiffin should be allowed to complete “a magical year.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 1, 2025

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

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

Gat smiles when I say the word suboptimal and pats my shoulder.

From "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart