Pragmatist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pragmatist
[หprรฆษกmษtษชst ]
Definitions
person
A pragmatist is a person who is guided more by practical considerations than by ideals or theory.
Synonyms
practical person, realist, utilitarian.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pragmatist |
Someone who is focused on practical approaches to problems and situations, often prioritizing tangible results over theories or principles.
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| realist |
A person who accepts and deals with things as they really are, often seeing them in a straightforward and unidealized way.
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| practical person |
An individual who deals with situations in a sensible and effective way, prioritizing what works in practice rather than what is idealistic or theoretical.
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| utilitarian |
Someone who believes in or adheres to the philosophy of utilitarianism, which values actions that maximize overall happiness or usefulness. This term can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of concern for individual rights or subtleties.
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Examples of usage
- As a pragmatist, she focused on what would work best in the situation rather than what was ideologically correct.
- The pragmatist in the group suggested a compromise that would benefit everyone involved.
philosophy
In philosophy, a pragmatist is someone who evaluates theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application.
Synonyms
practical thinker, real-world evaluator, utilitarian philosopher.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pragmatist |
Used to describe someone who focuses on practical approaches and solutions that are based on the situation's realities rather than on theoretical or idealistic considerations.
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| practical thinker |
Refers to someone who consistently uses common sense and straightforward thinking to solve problems or make decisions.
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| real-world evaluator |
Describes a person who assesses situations based on real-world conditions and factual evidence rather than on predictions or hypotheses.
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| utilitarian philosopher |
Used in broader philosophical or ethical discussions to describe someone who makes decisions based on the greatest overall benefit or utility to society.
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Examples of usage
- The pragmatist argued that the truth of a belief should be judged by its consequences in real life.
- Pragmatists believe that the value of an idea lies in its usefulness and practicality.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Pragmatism, a philosophical movement, emphasizes the ties between thought and action, valuing ideas based on their practical impact.
- Key figures include William James and John Dewey, who argued that beliefs should be validated through their effects in the real world.
- Pragmatism contrasts with idealism, which prioritizes concepts and ideals over real-world applications.
Culture
- In popular culture, pragmatic characters often appear as problem solvers who creatively manage challenges, like in many detective stories.
- The movement has influenced various fields, including education, where practical skills are valued alongside theoretical knowledge.
- Pragmatism is often humorously depicted in films, where characters use down-to-earth solutions to absurd problems.
Psychology
- Psychologists regard pragmatism as an essential trait for effective decision-making and adaptability in uncertain situations.
- Studies suggest that practical thinkers tend to have lower anxiety levels when tackling complex challenges.
- This approach fosters resilience, as pragmatists often view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures.
Science
- In scientific methodology, being pragmatic helps researchers focus on experiments and data that have real-world applications.
- Many technological advances stem from a pragmatic approach, which encourages trying new ideas until something works.
- Environmental scientists often apply pragmatic solutions to combat climate change, looking for effective methods that can be implemented quickly.
Origin of 'pragmatist'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'pragma,' meaning 'deed' or 'action,' emphasizing the importance of practical action.
- It first appeared in English in the early 20th century, connected to a philosophical movement focusing on practical consequences.
- The term has roots in children's play, where 'pragmatic' means figuring out what actually happens when you try something.
The term 'pragmatist' originated in the late 19th century, deriving from the Greek word 'pragma' meaning 'deed' or 'act'. It was first used in the philosophical context by American philosophers such as Charles Sanders Peirce and William James. Pragmatism emphasizes the practical consequences of beliefs and actions, focusing on what works in practice rather than abstract theory.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #27,146, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 27145 quaintly
- 27146 pragmatist
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- 27149 biotech
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