optimization
op-tim-eye-ZAY-shun
/ˌɒp.tɪ.maɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
The action of making the best or most effective use of a situation or resource.
In engineering, it often involves a trade-off (e.g., maximizing strength while minimizing weight).
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'optimus,' meaning 'best.' It entered the English language in the 19th century as a way to describe making things as effective as they can possibly be.
Word relationships
- maximization: Maximization is just making something as big as possible; optimization is making it as 'right' as possible.
- suboptimization: The practice of focusing on one part of a system at the expense of the whole.
Commonly confused with
- refinement: Refinement is making small improvements; optimization is a systematic approach to finding the best solution.
Word family
- optimize (verb): To make as perfect as possible.
- optimum (noun/adjective): The best or most favorable condition.
Collocations
- process optimization
- search engine optimization
- design optimization
Example sentences
- "Through structural optimization, the bridge was made stronger while using 20% less steel." Refining a design.
Memory hook
Optimus Prime: The leader of the Transformers is the 'Best' (Optimus) version of a robot. Finding the 'best' version.
When not to use
Don't use when you just mean 'improvement'; optimization implies reaching the 'best possible' state.
Fun facts
- Nature optimizes through evolution; the 'best' traits are the ones that survive and reproduce.
Related words
Explore more words
optimize, efficiency, efficient, pareto-optimal, deploy, effective
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