pragmatism

noun

Definition of pragmatismnext
as in realism

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pragmatism That pragmatism was refreshing and impeccably executed at Dries Van Noten, Celine, Simone Rocha, and Loewe. — Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026 The conflict between pragmatism and generosity begins at a small scale and incrementally escalates. — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026 In a display of pragmatism, al-Sharaa even maintains ties with both Russian President Vladimir Putin, a top ally of the former regime, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. — Tala Alrajjal, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2026 Understanding the scope of human suffering and hopelessness in our world stirs a strong internal conflict between empathy and pragmatism. — Torrey Snow, Baltimore Sun, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pragmatism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pragmatism
  1. realism
  2. cynicism
Noun
  • Rather than straightforward realism, Corn shows American Gothic to be the product of a thorough engagement with pattern and form.
    — Kelly Presutti, ARTnews.com, 23 Oct. 2026
  • And Truist analyst Joseph Civello, who said he was encouraged by Denton’s style and realism, noted that there is still much work to be done given the tough operating environment.
    — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of realism
Noun
  • A lot of that cynicism plus hopefulness comes out of the experience of modern life and day-to-day life.
    — Sam Macdonald, Scientific American, 28 Oct. 2026
  • One of his diary entries of the time shows his absolute cynicism.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of cynicism

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Cite this Entry

“Pragmatism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pragmatism. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on pragmatism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pragmatism

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