1. Emphasizing the best possible outcome:
* "To ensure optimal performance, the engine needs regular maintenance."
* "The doctor recommended a diet for optimal health."
2. Describing the ideal or most suitable condition:
* "The team is working to find the optimal balance between cost and efficiency."
* "The engineers determined the optimal angle for the solar panels to maximize energy output."
3. Comparing something to its best possible version:
* "This design is not optimal, but it's the best we can do with the current resources."
* "While the current system is functional, it's not optimal for long-term use."
4. Using it in a more informal context:
* "We need to find the optimal time to meet for the project."
* "This recipe is optimal for a quick and easy weeknight meal."
Remember: "Optimal" always implies the best possible result or condition, so choose your words carefully to ensure the meaning is clear.