Rationalist: meaning, definitions and examples

This word fits when describing someone who believes that reason and logic are the primary sources of knowledge and truth. The term is often used in discussions about epistemology or scientific methods.

• As a rationalist, she always seeks logical explanations for phenomena.
• The rationalist approach to problem-solving relies heavily on evidence and reason.

Best describes someone who spends a lot of time thinking about important issues, although not necessarily in a formal or academic setting. This term is more general and can apply to various contexts.

• He is a deep thinker who is always contemplating life's big questions.
• The thinker's insights on modern society were truly enlightening.

Best used for someone who engages in deep thinking and seeks to understand fundamental questions about existence, reality, and ethics. This term is appropriate in academic or intellectual discussions.

• The philosopher spent years studying the works of Plato and Aristotle.
• She is a philosopher who questions the nature of human existence.

Used for someone who doubts accepted beliefs or questions the validity of certain claims. The word often carries a critical or questioning connotation, sometimes with a negative undertone.

• He is a skeptic who never takes anything at face value.
• As a skeptic, she questioned the effectiveness of the new medicine.

Use in discussions about philosophical views that emphasize reason and knowledge over emotions and traditional beliefs.

• She’s a rationalist, always looking for logical explanations and evidence before making a decision

Use to describe someone who engages in critical thinking and complex ideas, often in an academic or cultural context.

• She’s considered an intellectual because she regularly publishes papers on modern philosophy and attends academic conferences

Use when describing someone who pursues high principles or goals, often envisioning perfection and not always considering practicality.

• As an idealist, he believes that world peace is an achievable goal despite the current conflicts

Use when emphasizing someone's ability to think logically and make decisions based on reason rather than emotions.

• He’s a rational thinker, always evaluating the pros and cons before taking any action