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Utilitarian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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utilitarian

[juːˌtɪl.ɪˈteə.ri.ən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

ethical theory

relating to or adhering to the ethical theory that the value of a thing or an action is determined by its utility

Synonyms

effective, functional, practical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
utilitarian

Utilitarian is best used when referring to something designed for practical use rather than aesthetics or luxury. It implies functionality and efficiency but often lacks comfort or style.

  • The company's utilitarian approach to office space meant plain furnishings and minimal decor
  • Her wardrobe choices are strictly utilitarian, focusing on comfort and utility
practical

Practical is used when describing something as sensible, realistic, or suitable for everyday use. It often implies ease of use and convenience.

  • She prefers practical gifts that she can actually use
  • For a family trip, an SUV is the most practical choice
functional

Functional is suitable when emphasizing that something is working correctly and is practical for its intended purpose. It suggests reliability and usability.

  • Despite its age, the car is still highly functional
  • The minimalist design of the kitchen is surprisingly functional
effective

Effective is appropriate when emphasizing the success or desired outcome of an action, method, or device. It indicates that something achieves its set goals or purposes well.

  • The new marketing strategy was highly effective in boosting sales
  • This medication is effective in treating cold symptoms

Examples of usage

  • Utilitarian ethics focus on maximizing overall happiness.
  • The utilitarian approach to decision-making considers the consequences for the greatest number of people.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

a person who believes in or practices utilitarianism

Synonyms

pragmatist, rationalist, realist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
utilitarian

Utilitarian is best used when referring to someone or something that is focused on the practical and functional aspects, often with an emphasis on maximizing overall benefit or happiness.

  • The design of the building is very utilitarian, focusing on practicality rather than beauty.
  • Her approach to solving the problem was strictly utilitarian, aiming to provide the greatest good for the greatest number.
pragmatist

Pragmatist fits well when describing a person who prioritizes practical approaches and solutions to problems, avoiding ideologies or theories that don't produce tangible results.

  • As a pragmatist, John focuses on what works in practice rather than sticking to principles that might not apply to real-world situations.
  • In political debates, she often emerges as the pragmatist, looking for feasible and actionable plans.
realist

Realist is useful to describe someone who accepts and deals with things as they are, focusing on practical and real-life constraints and limitations, often without ideological or overly optimistic perspectives.

  • Being a realist, she understood that not every dream could come true and prepared for practical outcomes.
  • In business meetings, his realist outlook helped ground the team's expectations.
rationalist

Rationalist is appropriate for situations where someone relies heavily on reason and logical thinking rather than emotions or religious beliefs.

  • He tackled the scientific problem as a rationalist, depending solely on logic and empirical evidence.
  • Her decisions were influenced by her rationalist beliefs, always prioritizing analytical thinking.

Examples of usage

  • The utilitarian argued that the moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome.
  • Utilitarians prioritize the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Utilitarianism, a major ethical theory, suggests that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number of people.
  • Philosopher Jeremy Bentham is known as the founder of this approach, advocating for actions that result in the most utility.

Design

  • In design, the approach emphasizes functionality, often prioritizing efficiency and simplicity over decorative features.
  • The Bauhaus movement in the early 20th century is a famous example, merging art with practical design.

Economics

  • In economics, utility refers to the satisfaction or benefit derived from consuming goods and services.
  • The concept helps understand consumer choices and market behavior—how people decide what to buy based on their needs.

Literature

  • Many writers explore utilitarian themes, questioning whether actions are justified by their outcomes in their narratives.
  • Charles Dickens often highlighted the flaws of excessive utilitarian thinking in his critique of the social conditions of his time.

Origin of 'utilitarian'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'utilitas,' which means 'usefulness' or 'profit.'
  • The term started gaining prominence in the late 18th century, marking a shift towards valuing practical outcomes in philosophy.

The term 'utilitarian' originated in the late 18th century, deriving from the word 'utility' which refers to the state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial. Utilitarianism as a philosophical concept was developed by Jeremy Bentham and later expanded upon by John Stuart Mill. It emphasizes the importance of maximizing overall happiness or utility in decision-making, focusing on the consequences of actions rather than abstract principles.

See also: reutilization, reutilize, underutilization, underutilize, unutilized, utilization, utilized, utilizer, utilizing.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,979, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.