optimize

11 synonyms and 3 antonyms for optimize, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To adjust something so that it works as well or as efficiently as possible.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

improve tune target solve

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

refine adapt

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

fine-tune streamline maximise optimise minimise

Synonyms by Meaning

1. verb

To adjust something so that it works as well or as efficiently as possible.

“We optimised the loading order and cut page-load time in half.”

improve fine-tune streamline refine maximise optimise

Opposites

degrade hamper worsen

2. verb

To adapt content, a page or a listing so that it performs better in search engines or algorithmic feeds.

“The article was optimised for a keyword nobody actually searches for.”

tune target adapt

3. verb

In mathematics and computing, to find the values that give the best result for a given objective function, subject to constraints.

“The solver optimises for cost while keeping delivery time under two days.”

solve minimise maximise

How to use optimize

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

optimise performance optimise for mobile fully optimised optimise the process

Neutral in technical writing; can sound like corporate jargon when applied to everyday life.

Etymology

Formed from optimum, the neuter of Latin optimus 'best', with the verb-forming ending -ize.

Full origin of optimize →

Frequently asked questions

Is it optimize or optimise?

Both are correct. Optimize is standard in American English and in most technical and academic publishing worldwide; optimise is the usual British form. Pick one and use it consistently through a document.

What is the difference between optimise and maximise?

Maximise means push one quantity as high as it will go. Optimise means find the best overall balance, which often requires holding a quantity below its maximum because of trade-offs such as cost, time or reliability.

What does optimising a website mean?

It usually means one of two things: making it load and run faster, or adjusting its content and structure so search engines rank it better. The context, or the phrase 'search engine optimisation', tells you which is meant.

People also searched

target improve solve tune adapt degrade refine hamper streamline worsen maximise minimise

Nearby words

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