Word Class

Noun

Definition

A pragmatic attitude or policy.

Philosophy An approach that evaluates theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application.

Etymology

Its roots in the Greek word pragma (πρᾶγμα | “deed,” “act,” or “thing done”) which is derived from the verb “prássein” (πράσσειν | “to do” or “to act”).

Example

Instead of sticking to rigid rules, the manager showed pragmatism by adapting the company’s policies to fit the changing needs of the employees, focusing on what actually worked best for everyone.

In philosophy, pragmatism suggests that the value of an idea or belief lies in its practical effects. For example, instead of debating whether something is ’true’ in an abstract sense, a pragmatist would ask, ‘Does this idea work in real life? Does it help solve problems?

Where did I find this word?

In the website of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine.