pragmatism
C1Formal, academic, political
Definition
Meaning
A practical approach to problems and affairs, focusing on what works rather than on theories or ideals.
A philosophical tradition that evaluates theories or beliefs in terms of their practical consequences and real-world success. In politics, it refers to policy-making based on practical considerations rather than ideology.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often contrasts with 'idealism' or 'dogmatism'. Can carry positive connotations (practical, effective) or negative ones (unprincipled, opportunistic) depending on context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The word is used similarly in both varieties.
Connotations
Slightly more common in American political discourse historically, but now equally prevalent in UK political commentary.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[noun] is a mark of pragmatism[noun] requires pragmatismpragmatism in [noun phrase]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A triumph of pragmatism over principle.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Business leaders praised the CEO's pragmatism in adapting the strategy to market realities.
Academic
The paper explores the influence of American pragmatism on 20th-century educational theory.
Everyday
Forget the perfect plan; a bit of pragmatism will get the job done faster.
Technical
In software development, architectural pragmatism often favours iterative improvements over grand redesigns.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The verb 'pragmatise' is obsolete and not used.
American English
- The verb 'pragmatise' is obsolete and not used.
adverb
British English
- He decided, quite pragmatically, to take the offer.
American English
- She approached the problem pragmatically.
adjective
British English
- His pragmatic approach saved the project.
American English
- Her pragmatic solution was widely applauded.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Pragmatism is important when you have a problem to solve.
- The government's new policy shows a welcome shift towards pragmatism.
- His philosophical stance was rooted in a robust form of pragmatism that rejected abstract metaphysics.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PRAGmatic mat: you stand on it because it works, not because it's theoretically the best mat.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDEAS ARE TOOLS (useful if they work).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation to 'прагматизм', which can carry a stronger negative connotation of selfish calculation or cynicism in Russian.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'pragmatism' with 'pragmatic' as a noun (e.g., 'He is a pragmatism' is wrong; 'He is a pragmatist' is correct).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is closest in meaning to 'pragmatism' in a political context?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Pragmatism emphasises practical outcomes, but it does not necessarily mean having no principles. It often involves flexibly applying principles to real-world constraints.
In philosophy, pragmatism is the doctrine that the meaning or truth of a concept is found in its practical consequences.
No. The adjective form is 'pragmatic'. 'Pragmatism' is only a noun.
It depends on context. It is generally positive when describing a practical, effective approach. It can be negative if it implies a lack of vision or a sacrifice of important ideals for short-term gain.
Collections
Part of a collection
Philosophy and Ethics
C1 · 50 words · Philosophical concepts and ethical reasoning.
Philosophical Vocabulary
C2 · 44 words · Technical terms used in academic philosophy.
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