pragmatist

American  

[prag-muh-tist] / ˈpræg mə tɪst /

noun

1. a person who is oriented toward the success or failure of a particular line of action, thought, etc.; a practical person.

2. an advocate or adherent of philosophical pragmatism.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of pragmatism.

Usage

What does pragmatist mean? A pragmatist is a person who deals with problems or situations by focusing on practical approaches and solutions—ones that will work in practice, as opposed to being ideal in theory. The word pragmatist is often contrasted with the word idealist, which refers to a person who acts based on high principles or ideals. A pragmatist, on the other hand, acts based on real-world conditions or circumstances—they consider what can realistically be done as opposed to the best theoretical course of action. This approach is called pragmatism. More specifically, pragmatism can refer to the philosophical movement or approach that emphasizes practical consequences in the determination of meaning, truth, or value. A philosopher who adheres to this can also be called a pragmatist. Pragmatist can also be used as an adjective to describe such a philosophy or action. The related adjective form pragmatic means practical, especially when making decisions. Example: We need a candidate who’s a pragmatist and can get things done in the real world—not some idealist who will never compromise.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• antipragmatist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of pragmatist

First recorded in 1630–40; pragmat(ic) + -ist

Explanation

If you have a friend whose head is always in the clouds, always dreaming, and taking risks without thinking of the consequences, you might say that she isn’t much of a pragmatist. A pragmatist is someone who is pragmatic, that is to say, someone who is practical and focused on reaching a goal. Pragmatists usually have a straightforward, matter-of-fact approach and don’t let their emotions distract them. Pragmatist can also ignore their own ideals to get the job done, though, so in this way it can have a slightly negative meaning. The word is often used in reference to politicians to mean that they are either sensible or willing to cut corners for their cause.

Example Sentences

Pragmatist Massa is pledging a unity government and more gradual change to solve the crisis that has worsened on his watch.

From Reuters • Nov. 13, 2023

Pragmatist, whether we talk about the Soviet Union, or China today, is a relative term.

From The New Yorker • Jan. 3, 2020

At the moment and timed to the mayoral election, Mr. de Blasio is the subject of a book called, “The Pragmatist.’

From New York Times • Sep. 15, 2017

Pragmatist Rouhani arrived in France on Wednesday on the second leg of a state visit to Europe after three days in Italy.

From Reuters • Jan. 28, 2016

One cannot resist the temptation of thinking that just here the great Pragmatist has been led astray by that very philosophical pride he condemns in the metaphysicians.

From The Complex Vision by Powys, John Cowper