pragmatic

[prag-mat-ik]

adjective

1. of or relating to a practical point of view or practical considerations.

2. Philosophy.,  of or relating to pragmatism.

3. of or relating to pragmatics.

4. treating historical phenomena with special reference to their causes, antecedent conditions, and results.

5. of or relating to the affairs of state or community.

6. Archaic.

   1. busy; active.

   2. officious; meddlesome; interfering.

   3. dogmatic; opinionated.

noun

1. pragmatic sanction.

2. Archaic.,  an officious or meddlesome person.

pragmatic

/ præɡˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. advocating behaviour that is dictated more by practical consequences than by theory or dogma

2. philosophy of or relating to pragmatism

3. involving everyday or practical business

4. of or concerned with the affairs of a state or community

5. rare,  interfering or meddlesome; officious

Other Word Forms

• pragmaticality noun
• pragmaticalness noun
• pragmatically adverb
• antipragmatic adjective
• antipragmatical adjective
• antipragmatically adverb
• nonpragmatic adjective
• nonpragmatical adjective
• nonpragmatically adverb
• unpragmatic adjective
• unpragmatical adjective
• unpragmatically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of pragmatic¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Latin prāgmaticus, from Greek prāgmatikós “practical,” equivalent to prāgmat-, stem of prâgma “deed, state business,” derivative of prā́ssein “to do, fare” + -ikos -ic; practic

Word History and Origins

Origin of pragmatic¹

C17: from Late Latin prāgmaticus, from Greek prāgmatikos from pragma act, from prattein to do

Example Sentences

Mahan has drawn wide notice, in particular from the more pragmatic wing of the party.

From Los Angeles Times

In previous seasons, Arteta's approach has been described as pragmatic given the lack of risk taken in their attacking play despite dominating the ball.

From BBC

In that context, Sharp’s pragmatic strategies for noncompliance can be considered an active, peaceful response to the sense of powerlessness that authoritarians like “our” president aim to foster.

From Salon

Martin has opted for a more pragmatic midfield two in recent games with the full-backs tasked with playing wider.

From BBC

This reflects the new California model: principled resistance and pragmatic governance.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• businesslike 
• down-to-earth 
• efficient 
• hardheaded 
• logical 
• practical 
• realistic 
• sober 

When To Use

What does pragmatic mean?

Pragmatic means practical, especially when making decisions.The word pragmatic is often contrasted with the word idealistic, which means based on or having high principles or ideals. Pragmatic, on the other hand, means based on real world conditions or circumstances—considering what can realistically be done as opposed to the best theoretical course of action. A person who acts pragmatically can be called a pragmatist.The noun form of pragmatic is pragmatism. Pragmatism can mean the practice of being pragmatic, but it can also more specifically refer to the philosophical movement that emphasizes practical consequences in the determination of meaning, truth, or value.Example: We need a candidate who’s pragmatic and can get things done in the real world—not some idealist who will never compromise.