optimum
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optimum
The best possible state, the best result, or the most favorable value that can be achieved under given circumstances.
Für diese Pflanze liegt die Temperatur bei 22 Grad im Optimum.
For this plant, the temperature is at its optimum at 22 degrees.
'Optimum' belongs to a word family with the adjective 'optimal' (best possible) and the verb 'optimieren' (to improve / optimize something). All the words refer to the best state or the best result.
Wir müssen den Prozess optimieren, um ein optimales Ergebnis zu erzielen.
We need to optimize the process in order to achieve an optimal result.
Common phrases are 'das Optimum erreichen' (to reach the optimum), 'das Optimum herausholen' (to get the optimum out of something), or 'im Optimum liegen' (to be at the optimum). These describe reaching or being in the state of the best possible result.
Mit dieser Strategie wollen wir das Optimum für unser Unternehmen herausholen.
With this strategy, we want to get the optimum for our company.
The word 'Optimum' is used mainly in factual, technical, or scientific contexts to describe the best possible point or state precisely.
Die Forscher suchen nach dem Optimum für das Pflanzenwachstum.
The researchers are looking for the optimum for plant growth.
minimum
'das Minimum' and 'das Optimum' can both have to do with a target value, but they are not the same thing. 'das Minimum' is the smallest necessary or possible value. 'das Optimum' is the best or most favorable value under certain conditions. Learners may confuse the words because a small value can sometimes be good, for example with costs or effort. But 'Minimum' only means 'the least', while 'Optimum' means 'the best fit'.
Für die Reise sucht das Team das Optimum aus Preis, Zeit und Komfort.
For the trip, the team is looking for the optimum balance of price, time, and comfort.
Alina plant für den Termin nur das Minimum an Zeit ein.
Alina plans only the minimum amount of time for the appointment.