What's Trending Now
More Trending Words
hypothetical imperative
noun
Definition of hypothetical imperative
: an imperative of conduct that springs from expediency or practical necessity rather than from moral law —contrasted with categorical imperative
Read the Latest from M-W
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of hypothetical imperative
translation of German hypothetischer imperativ
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up hypothetical imperative? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!