pragmatic
Pragmatic (adj) means Focused on practical results and workable solutions rather than theory or ideals. Example: “The manager took a pragmatic approach and just fixed the immediate problem.”
How to use pragmatic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing sensible and practical, dealing with things as they really are instead of how you wish they were.
Don't confuse with "dogmatic," which means the opposite — sticking rigidly to a belief regardless of practical outcome.
Word forms
more pragmatic comparative, pragmatics plural, most pragmatic superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The manager took a _____ approach and just fixed the immediate problem.
Etymology
From Greek "pragmatikos" ("skilled in business or affairs"), from "pragma" ("a deed" or "a thing done") — the same root as "practical."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for pragmatic
See all rhymes for pragmatic →Frequently asked questions
What does “pragmatic” mean?
The word “pragmatic” means focused on practical results and workable solutions rather than theory or ideals. In plain terms, being sensible and practical, dealing with things as they really are instead of how you wish they were.
How do you pronounce “pragmatic”?
“Pragmatic” is pronounced prag-MA-tihk (/pɹæɡˈmætɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “pragmatic” in a sentence?
Here is “pragmatic” used in a sentence: “The manager took a pragmatic approach and just fixed the immediate problem.”
What is the opposite of “pragmatic”?
The opposite of “pragmatic” — its antonyms — is idealistic.
What part of speech is “pragmatic”?
“Pragmatic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “pragmatic” come from?
The word “pragmatic” comes from Greek. From Greek "pragmatikos" ("skilled in business or affairs"), from "pragma" ("a deed" or "a thing done") — the same root as "practical.".
Is “pragmatic” a common word?
“Pragmatic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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