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

• 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

Russell, a respected literary publisher, is an eternal bon vivant, while Corrine, who works in philanthropy, is the pragmatist of the pair.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Psychoanalysis, Mr. Phillips suggests, can support this pragmatist approach by helping us navigate that retelling.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Chance handed post-Maduro power to Rodriguez, a former economics minister with a reputation as a pragmatist, says Angela Pachon, special adviser to University of Pennsylvania’s Kleinman Center for Energy Policy.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

He said he’s running as a pragmatist and unifier.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 21, 2026

Like Duke, Washington was above all a pragmatist who preached a gospel of industrial progress.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson