Pragmatic synonym,synonyms of pragmatic
Practical
- Meaning and Usage: “Practical” emphasizes the usefulness and applicability of something in real-life situations. It's used to describe things, ideas, or people that are concerned with actual use and effectiveness rather than theory or speculation. For example, “She came up with a very practical solution to the problem.”
- Semantic Similarity: It's very close in meaning to “pragmatic”. Both words imply a focus on what works in practice and a disregard for overly idealistic or theoretical considerations. However, “practical” is more commonly used in everyday language to describe tangible things or straightforward solutions, while “pragmatic” has a more intellectual or strategic connotation.
Realistic
- Meaning and Usage: “Realistic” means having a practical and accurate understanding of the situation, based on what is actually possible and likely to happen. It implies an acceptance of the facts and a tendency to make decisions and plans that are in line with reality. For instance, “We need to set realistic goals for this project.”
- Semantic Relationship: It shares the practical and grounded aspect with “pragmatic”. A realistic person or approach is often pragmatic as well, as both involve dealing with the world as it is rather than as one might wish it to be. “Realistic” focuses more on the perception of reality, while “pragmatic” emphasizes the practical actions and strategies based on that perception.
Down-to-earth
- Meaning and Usage: “Down-to-earth” describes people or ideas that are practical, unpretentious, and firmly rooted in reality. It suggests a lack of extravagance or fanciful thinking and a preference for dealing with things in a simple, straightforward way. For example, “He's a down-to-earth guy who always gives practical advice.”
- Semantic Similarity: It's similar to “pragmatic” in terms of being practical and unconcerned with abstract or lofty notions. “Down-to-earth” has a more informal and personal connotation, often used to describe a person's character or attitude, while “pragmatic” can be used in a more professional or formal context to describe approaches, policies, etc.
Matter-of-fact
- Meaning and Usage: “Matter-of-fact” implies a practical and unemotional approach to dealing with things, presenting or considering facts in a straightforward and unembellished way. It's used to describe people who are focused on the facts and not given to exaggeration or sentimentality. For instance, “She gave a matter-of-fact account of what happened.”
- Semantic Link: It's related to “pragmatic” in that both suggest a practical and no-nonsense attitude. “Matter-of-fact” is more about the way of presenting or dealing with information and situations, emphasizing objectivity and straightforwardness, while “pragmatic” is more about the overall approach and decision-making based on practical considerations.
Utilitarian
- Meaning and Usage: “Utilitarian” emphasizes the importance of usefulness and practicality, often to the point of sacrificing other considerations such as aesthetics or sentiment. It's used to describe things, designs, or approaches that are focused solely on achieving a practical purpose. For example, “The utilitarian design of the building focused on functionality rather than beauty.”
- Semantic Similarity: It has a similar focus on practicality with “pragmatic”. “Utilitarian” is more about the practical value and functionality of something, especially in terms of its design or purpose, while “pragmatic” can refer to a broader range of practical considerations in decision-making, problem-solving, etc.