Ideal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ideal
[aɪˈdɪəl ]
Definitions
personal qualities
Satisfying one's conception of what is perfect; most suitable.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ideal |
Use when referring to the best possible situation, person, or thing for a particular purpose or situation. Often used in theoretical or wishful contexts.
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| perfect |
Use when describing an absolute state of being free from any flaw or defect, often in an aspirational or sometimes exaggerated manner.
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| optimal |
Use when describing the most efficient or favorable condition, especially in a technical, scientific, or performance-related context.
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| excellent |
Use when describing something or someone of very high quality. It implies a high degree of excellence, commonly used in everyday positive feedback.
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Examples of usage
- She is the ideal candidate for the job.
- The perfect solution to the problem is not always ideal.
concept
A standard of perfection or excellence.
Synonyms
paradigm, perfect model, standard.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ideal |
Use 'ideal' when referring to the most suitable or perfect situation, person, or thing. Often used in casual conversations and everyday scenarios.
|
| perfect model |
Use 'perfect model' when highlighting a flawless example that others should follow. This phrase can fit in various contexts but is less commonly used in casual speech.
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| standard |
Use 'standard' to describe an accepted or normative level of quality, which serves as a benchmark. It can apply in both technical and everyday situations.
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| paradigm |
Use 'paradigm' in academic, scientific, or philosophical contexts to talk about an established model or pattern of something.
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Examples of usage
- His idea of a perfect vacation is the ideal for relaxation.
- The company strives to achieve the ideal of customer satisfaction.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- In philosophical terms, ideals refer to the ultimate goals individuals aim for in life.
- Plato's Theory of Forms suggests that there is a perfect form or 'ideal' of every object or concept in the world.
- The ideal state is a foundational idea in ethics, prompting discussions about what constitutes a perfect society.
Art
- In art, many movements, like classicism, strive for ideal beauty and perfection in their works.
- Artists like Michelangelo sought to represent the human form in an idealized manner, achieving both beauty and symmetry.
- The concept of the 'ideal' has evolved in art from classical interpretations to modern and abstract expressions.
Psychology
- In psychology, the term 'ideal self' refers to the person one aspires to be, often influencing motivation and self-esteem.
- Cognitive dissonance can occur when there is a gap between one's current self and their ideal self, prompting personal change.
- The pursuit of ideals can have both positive and negative effects on mental health, influencing stress and satisfaction levels.
Cultural Concepts
- Different cultures have varied perceptions of what is considered 'ideal', influencing societal norms and behaviors.
- In many cultures, ideals about family, success, and happiness differ, reflecting historical and social influences.
- The impact of social media has reshaped modern ideals, often skewing perceptions of reality and perfection.
Origin of 'ideal'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ideal' comes from the Greek word 'idealis', which means 'of forms or ideas'.
- In the 14th century, it made its way into Middle English, retaining the meaning related to perfection.
- It evolved from connotations of 'ideas' to represent the most desirable state in various contexts.
The word 'ideal' originated from the Late Latin word 'ideal'is, meaning existing as an idea or in the mind only. It entered the English language in the late 17th century. Over time, 'ideal' has come to represent the concept of perfection or the best possible standard. The idea of an ideal has been a recurring theme in philosophy, art, and literature, reflecting humanity's pursuit of perfection and excellence.
See also: idealism, idealist, idealistic, idealization, idealize, idealizing, ideally, idealness.