Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who takes a practical approach to problems: A pragmatist is someone who deals with issues in a sensible, realistic way based on practical considerations and likely outcomes, rather than on theory or abstract principles.
   • An adherent of philosophical pragmatism: A pragmatist is a person who supports or follows the philosophical tradition that defines truth and meaning in terms of practical consequences and real-world effects.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Practical Person):
  • As a pragmatist, she focused on solutions that would work in the real world, not just in theory.
  • The manager was a pragmatist who valued results over rigid procedures.
• Noun (Philosophy Adherent):
  • William James is considered a leading pragmatist in American philosophy.
  • The debate featured a pragmatist arguing against a strict idealist.

Advanced Usage

• Political Pragmatist: A politician or leader who makes decisions based on what is achievable and effective rather than on strict ideology.
  • The senator was known as a political pragmatist, willing to compromise to pass legislation.
• Business Pragmatist: An individual in business who prioritizes practical strategies and profitable outcomes.
  • His success was due to his reputation as a business pragmatist who could adapt to market changes.

Variants and Related Words

• Pragmatic (adj): Dealing with things sensibly and realistically based on practical considerations.
  • She took a pragmatic approach to the budget crisis.
• Pragmatism (n): 1. A practical, matter-of-fact way of approaching problems. 2. A philosophical movement.
  • His pragmatism helped the team navigate the complex project.
• Pragmatically (adv): In a pragmatic manner.
  • He argued pragmatically for the new policy.

Synonyms

• Realist: A person who accepts and deals with situations as they really are.
• Practical person: Someone concerned with actual use or practice.
• Sensibilist (less common): A person who emphasizes practical sense.

Antonyms

• Idealist: A person guided by ideals, especially unrealistically.
• Dogmatist: A person who asserts opinions in an arrogant manner; a follower of dogma.
• Theorist: A person concerned with the theoretical aspects of a subject.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To take a pragmatist's view: To adopt a practical, results-oriented perspective on a situation.
  • Taking a pragmatist's view, we allocated resources to the most urgent needs first.

Noun

1. a person who takes a practical approach to problems and is concerned primarily with the success or failure of her actions
2. an adherent of philosophical pragmatism