What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suboptimal
Example
The company's suboptimal performance led to a decrease in profits. [suboptimal: adjective]
Example
Although the plan was suboptimal, it was the best we could do given the time constraints. [suboptimal: adjective]
imperfect
Example
The painting was beautiful, but it had some imperfect brushstrokes. [imperfect: adjective]
Example
We live in an imperfect world where mistakes are bound to happen. [imperfect: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imperfect is more commonly used than suboptimal in everyday language. Imperfect is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while suboptimal is less common and typically used in formal or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suboptimal and imperfect?
Suboptimal is more formal and technical than imperfect, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
