Pragmatist: meaning, definitions and examples

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pragmatist

 

[ ˈpræɡmətɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

person

A pragmatist is a person who is guided more by practical considerations than by ideals or theory.

Synonyms

practical person, realist, utilitarian

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

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

Translations of the word "pragmatist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pragmatista

🇮🇳 व्यावहारिक

🇩🇪 Pragmatiker

🇮🇩 pragmatis

🇺🇦 прагматик

🇵🇱 pragmatyk

🇯🇵 実用主義者

🇫🇷 pragmatique

🇪🇸 pragmático

🇹🇷 pragmatist

🇰🇷 실용주의자

🇸🇦 براغماتي

🇨🇿 pragmatik

🇸🇰 pragmatik

🇨🇳 实用主义者

🇸🇮 pragmatik

🇮🇸 raunsæismaður

🇰🇿 прагматик

🇬🇪 პრაგმატიკოსი

🇦🇿 pragmatik

🇲🇽 pragmático

Etymology

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.