Pragmatic: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Pragmatic adjective. Dealing with things sensibly and practically rather than by theory or ideals.
How to say it
prag-MAT-ik/præɡˈmætɪk/
3 syllables, stressed on the second (MAT).
Pragmatic in a sentence
Ever pragmatic, Mum packed a torch, plasters and a spare phone charger.
The council took a pragmatic view and fixed the worst potholes first.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- practical
- realistic
- sensible
- hard-headed
Opposite:
- idealistic
- impractical
Where pragmatic comes from
From Greek pragma, a deed or thing done.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
The council took a _____ view and fixed the worst potholes first.
- pious
- pragmatic
- credulous
Show the answer
pragmatic: The council took a pragmatic view and fixed the worst potholes first.