I am a little confused when I should be using Optimalization or optimization. Some dictionaries say Optimization is a noun of Optimalization, but I have no idea what they mean by that.
Some of the sentences I would like to use it in:
- I am writing an '…' plan for this project.
- I am '…' the plan for
this project. - Can we '…' the strategy before next meeting?
- Can you
write a '…' strategy before next meeting?
In all of these ways I am trying to make clear we are trying to make something better, improve it, perfect it. 'Optimizing' seems to be the word most used in my business, however it sounds rather awkward to me.
Best Answer
Optimum is the base word, and optimize and optimal are verb and adjective forms, respectively (optimally being the adverb form).
It's redundant to "verb-ify" the adjective form of a base word, if there is already a verb form.
English has a number of patterns for turning base words into other parts of speech and probably at some point every possible permutation of base word and suffix has been tried and used somewhere. This doesn't mean you should start using uncommon combinations without very good reason and command of the language, though.
In particular, people who are trying to "sound smart" but aren't actually smart will tend to use words with a more than necessary number of syllables. For example, using the word utilize in resumes when use or other simpler words would work. Optimalize sounds like you're trying to do this. Avoid it even if some dictionary somewhere lists it as valid word, unless you are in a context where optimal has taken on a special meaning (I can't think of one).