Your Smart Vocabulary Companion

Etymology

From Greek "pragmatikos" meaning "skilled in business," from "pragma" (genitive "pragmatos") meaning "deed, act," from "prassein" meaning "to do." Entered English in the 1590s.

Usage Examples

1. "She took a pragmatic approach to the problem, focusing on solutions that could be implemented immediately."

2. "While his vision was idealistic, the team needed someone with a more pragmatic mindset to execute the plan."

3. "The pragmatic choice was to rent rather than buy, given the uncertain job market."

Synonyms

• Practical
• Realistic
• Sensible
• Down-to-earth
• Matter-of-fact

Antonyms

• Idealistic
• Impractical
• Theoretical
• Unrealistic
• Romantic

Fun Facts

• "Pragmatism" became a formal philosophy in America through William James and Charles Sanders Peirce, emphasizing practical consequences as the test of truth.
• The phrase "pragmatic approach" has become ubiquitous in business and management literature.
• Studies show pragmatic thinkers often excel at problem-solving but may miss innovative solutions that seem initially impractical.

Word Family

• Pragmatism (noun): A pragmatic attitude or policy
• Pragmatically (adverb): In a pragmatic manner
• Pragmatist (noun): A person who is pragmatic