ideal

[ahy-dee-uhl, ahy-deel] / aɪˈdi əl, aɪˈdil /

ADJECTIVE

model, perfect

Synonyms

STRONGEST

excellent fitting optimal quintessential

STRONG

Shangri-la absolute classic classical representative

WEAK

archetypal complete consummate exemplary flawless have-it-all indefectible paradigmatic pie-in-the-sky prototypical supreme

Antonyms

WEAK

actual common flawed imperfect incorrect problematic wrong

ADJECTIVE

conceptual; impractical

Synonyms

STRONGEST

unattainable unreal

STRONG

abstract hypothetical imaginary intellectual utopian visionary

WEAK

chimerical dreamlike extravagant fanciful fictitious high-flown in the clouds ivory-tower mental mercurial notional out of reach quixotic theoretical transcendent transcendental unearthly

Antonyms

WEAK

practical pragmatic

NOUN

model

Synonyms

STRONGEST

goal perfection standard

STRONG

archetype criterion epitome example exemplar idol jewel mirror nonesuch nonpareil paradigm paragon pattern prototype

WEAK

last word

Antonyms

WEAK

error flaw imperfection problem wrong

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The ideal scenario is that you know exactly where it is," Campbell said.

From BBC

Americans like Martin Luther King Jr. helped push this country closer to its founding ideals.

From The Wall Street Journal

Fort Worth is ideal for a weekend getaway.

From Salon

“I’m not thrilled that more students are relying on borrowing large loan amounts. That’s still nobody’s ideal,” he said.

From MarketWatch

Featuring an intuitive “one-click” interface consistent across all devices, it is ideal for both beginners and frequent travelers.

From Salon