Impractical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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impractical
[ɪmˈpræktɪkəl ]
Definitions
not sensible
Not sensible or realistic; incapable of being carried out effectively.
Synonyms
impracticable, unrealistic, unworkable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impractical |
Used when describing something that is not convenient or practical to use or implement in real life. Often refers to ideas, methods, or designs that are difficult to put into practice due to lack of feasibility or practicality.
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| unrealistic |
Used to describe something that is not sensible or reasonable; it may refer to plans, expectations, or dreams that are unlikely to happen in reality. Often has a negative connotation.
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| impracticable |
Used when referring to something that cannot be done or achieved, typically due to physical or logistical obstacles. It emphasizes the impossibility of implementation.
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| unworkable |
Used when something cannot function properly or be executed effectively. This word often refers to plans, strategies, or systems that break down under practical conditions.
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Examples of usage
- It's impractical to expect everyone to work late every day.
- Buying a yacht is impractical for most people.
- She had many impractical ideas that were not feasible.
not functional
Not capable of being used for a particular purpose; not functional.
Synonyms
ineffective, nonfunctional, useless.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impractical |
Used when something is not sensible or realistic in practical situations.
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| nonfunctional |
Used when something is not working or operating as it should.
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| useless |
Used when something has no use or value, often carries a negative connotation.
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| ineffective |
Used when something does not produce the desired effect or outcome.
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Examples of usage
- The design was beautiful but ultimately impractical.
- Her choice of shoes was stylish but impractical for hiking.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often prefer practical solutions that they can easily implement in everyday life.
- Impractical ideas are sometimes linked to creativity, as they may come from thinking outside of conventional boundaries.
- Decision-making studies show that emotion can lead individuals to favor impractical options over practical ones when under stress.
Business
- In business scenarios, impractical plans might look visionary but can often fail due to lack of feasibility.
- Startups may propose impractical business models during pitches that sound exciting but lack real-world application.
- Companies regularly assess the practicality of ideas to ensure they align with market needs and operational capabilities.
Literature
- Many characters in fiction are described as impractical, which adds to their charm or folly.
- Classic literature often contrasts practical and impractical characters to highlight thematic elements of reality versus idealism.
- Writers use the concept of impracticality to critique social norms and provoke thought among readers.
Pop Culture
- In films and television, protagonists with impractical dreams embark on journeys that create both comedy and drama.
- Social media trends occasionally highlight impractical life hacks that are entertaining but not functional in practice.
- Comedic portrayals of impractical people often serve to reflect society's absurdities and challenge the status quo.
Origin of 'impractical'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'impracticus,' which means 'not to be practiced.'
- It combines the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not' with 'practical,' which relates to useful actions.
- The term started being widely used in English around the 1800s.
The word 'impractical' originated from the combination of the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' and the word 'practical' meaning 'sensible' or 'workable'. It first appeared in the early 19th century in English literature to describe things that were not sensible or feasible. Over time, 'impractical' has become a common adjective used to convey the idea of something that is not realistic or functional.
See also: impractically, practicality.