Word
optimize
Phoneticsop·ti·mize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈɑptəˌmaɪz/
UK spelling · optimise
Definitions
01to make something better
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to improve something so that it works in the best possible way.
v. to make something optimal or as effective as possible by adjusting its components.
“We need to optimize our workflow to finish the project on time.”
“The management team sought to optimize the supply chain to reduce overhead costs while maintaining high delivery standards.”
Usage
Often used with abstract nouns like 'process', 'performance', or 'workflow'.
02computing
B2 · Upper Intermediate Computing Technical
v. to make a computer program or system run faster or use less memory.
v. to modify a system or software to improve its efficiency or reduce its resource consumption.
“The developers are working to optimize the app for older smartphones.”
“By refactoring the database queries, the engineers were able to optimize the server response time significantly during peak traffic hours.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“For years, researchers had attempted to optimize these proteins through genetic engineering, achieving only limited improvements in response speed.” “There are so many TikTok trends that promise to optimize our lives.” Etymology
(1844) Back-formation from optimist.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/optimize