optimize
To make something as effective or functional as possible.
Examples
In a meeting
“We need to optimize the checkout flow to reduce cart abandonment.”
Over coffee
“I've been trying to optimize my sleep schedule by going to bed earlier.”
Why this word
improve
Optimize specifically means making as effective or functional as possible, while improve just means making better in any degree
enhance
Optimize implies achieving maximum efficiency or best possible outcome, while enhance means increasing quality without implying perfection
maximize
Optimize means finding the best balance of multiple factors, while maximize means making a single factor as large as possible
Usage tip
Implies fine-tuning something that already works, not fixing something broken. Pairs well with 'for' — optimize for speed, cost, etc.
Etymology
Latin optimus (best) + -ize (to make)
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Related words
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
augment
To make something greater by adding to it; to supplement.
eliminate
To completely remove or get rid of something.
simplify
To make something easier to understand or do
centralize
To bring together or concentrate control in one location or authority