51³Ô¹Ï

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View synonyms for

pragmatism

[prag-muh-tiz-uhm]

noun

  1. character or conduct that emphasizes practicality.

  2. a philosophical movement or system having various forms, but generally stressing practical consequences as constituting the essential criterion in determining meaning, truth, or value.



pragmatism

/ ˈ±è°ùæɡ³¾É™ËŒ³Ùɪ³úÉ™³¾ /

noun

  1. action or policy dictated by consideration of the immediate practical consequences rather than by theory or dogma

  2. philosophy

    1. the doctrine that the content of a concept consists only in its practical applicability

    2. the doctrine that truth consists not in correspondence with the facts but in successful coherence with experience See also instrumentalism

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged†2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

pragmatism

  1. An approach to philosophy, primarily held by American philosophers, which holds that the truth or meaning of a statement is to be measured by its practical (i.e., pragmatic) consequences. William James and John Dewey were pragmatists.

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Other 51³Ô¹Ï Forms

  • pragmatistic adjective
  • antipragmatism noun
  • ˈ±è°ù²¹²µ³¾²¹³Ù¾±²õ³Ù noun
  • ËŒ±è°ù²¹²µ³¾²¹Ëˆ³Ù¾±²õ³Ù¾±³¦ adjective
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51³Ô¹Ï History and Origins

Origin of pragmatism1

First recorded in 1860–65; pragmat(ic) + -ism
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

When overcome by uncertainty, pragmatism is the way to go.

From

Of course pragmatism lies in the eyes of the beholder.

From

However, Mujica governed in his own way, demonstrating pragmatism and audacity on several occasions, political commentators say.

From

Brazilian football has long wrestled between two systems: the flair of a samba style and the pragmatism needed to win at the highest level.

From

But through man-management, tactical pragmatism, and the brilliance of individuals, Madrid triumphed.

From

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When To Use

What doesÌýpragmatism mean?

Pragmatism is a way of dealing with problems or situations that focuses on practical approaches and solutions—ones that will work in practice, as opposed to being ideal in theory.The word pragmatism is often contrasted with the word idealism, which means based on or having high principles or ideals. Pragmatism, on the other hand, is based on real-world conditions or circumstances—considering what can realistically be done as opposed to the best theoretical course of action.More specifically, pragmatism can refer to the philosophical movement or approach that emphasizes practical consequences in the determination of meaning, truth, or value.The adjective form pragmatic means practical, especially when making decisions. The word pragmatist can refer to a person who prefers to act pragmatically, or to a philosopher who adheres to the movement of pragmatism.Example: We need a candidate who values pragmatism and can get things done in the real world—not some idealist who will never compromise.

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pragmatic theorypragmatist