ideal
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “ideal” mean in English?
ideal — perfectly suited; best possible for a purpose
ideal — perfectly suited; best possible for a purpose (condiciones ideales, solución ideal)
Example sentences
Las condiciones climáticas y la altitud hacen de esa región el destino ideal para el entrenamiento en altura de atletas de élite.
The climatic conditions and altitude make that region the ideal destination for altitude training of elite athletes.
No existe la solución ideal, pero sí se puede encontrar la que mejor responda a las necesidades concretas de cada contexto.
There is no ideal solution, but it is possible to find the one that best responds to the specific needs of each context.
How to use it
Ideal means 'ideal' — perfectly suited to a requirement; representing the best possible standard. Common collocations: condiciones ideales, solución ideal, candidato ideal, momento ideal. Ser: always ser for the 'perfect fit' sense. Important: ideal can also be a noun (un ideal = a principle or aspiration).
Common mistake
Ideal ≠ perfecto: ideal focuses on suitability for a specific purpose; perfecto focuses on flawlessness. 'El candidato ideal' = best fit for the role; 'el candidato perfecto' = without any flaw.