Pragmatic
Dreams are fun in group chat; budgets, surgery, and launch dates are where this adjective quietly wins the argument for what will actually ship.
Learn This WordMeaning
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
Memory trick
Think "PRAG-MATIC" = "PRACTICAL-MATIC (automatic)." Pragmatic people automatically think practically.
Examples
She took a pragmatic approach to solving the budget crisis.
His pragmatic decision was based on what would actually work, not what sounded good.
A pragmatic leader focuses on achievable goals rather than lofty ideals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Greek pragmatikos "fit for business," from pragma "deed, act," from prassein "to do, act."
Usage Notes
Common in business, politics, and decision-making contexts to describe practical, results-oriented thinking.
Real-life contexts
Use for practical decisions: "Let's be pragmatic about this."
Perfect for business: "We need a pragmatic solution, not an ideal one."
Works in debates: "I prefer a pragmatic approach over theory."
Common Mistakes
Being pragmatic doesn't mean lacking vision, it means being realistic about implementation.
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Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
intermediateMonthly Searches
~90,000
Related Words
Pragmatism
A practical approach to problems and affairs; a way of thinking that evaluates ideas by their results and usefulness.
Prudent
Acting with or showing care and thought for the future; wise and cautious in practical affairs.
Fledgling
A young bird that has just fledged; a person or organization that is new and inexperienced.