Words / B2

OPT-im-uh-m/ˈɒptɪməm/

Optimum means best or most favourable for a purpose: optimum temperature; an optimum sample size. Optimal is a close twin; optimistic means expecting a good outcome (already in the dictionary). State the optimum pH, not a vibe. Mix-up: optimism / optional. Do not call a lucky result optimum without a criterion.

Meaning

Best or most favourable for a particular purpose.

Examples

• “State the optimum pH for the enzyme, not “it seemed happy”.”
• “An optimum sample size still needs a power calculation, which is the methods sense.”

Good to know

the optimum + noun; at an optimum. Twin: optimal. Trap: optimistic / optional. Sciences and planning. Best for a stated purpose, not “cheerful”.

Near in meaning

optimal

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