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 This is where strategic pragmatism meets historic opportunity. — Barry Scott Zellen, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2026 The appointment is not necessarily flashy, rather grounded in pragmatism and reflective of the challenge Ipswich expect to face next season. — Sam Joseph, New York Times, 23 June 2026 Putin’s 26 years at the helm of Russia have – until recently – been marked by deft maneuvering, pragmatism, and outsized geopolitical heft. — Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 18 June 2026 Defensive vulnerabilities need to be covered up because an element of pragmatism is a key ingredient of most major tournament successes. — Chris Evans, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for pragmatism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pragmatism
  1. realism
  2. cynicism
Noun
  • The country’s tragic 21st-century travails provide much of the fodder for the couple’s drama in director Cyril Aris’ moving film, including whether to stay or emigrate, with touches of magical realism and whimsy providing levity.
    — David Faris, TheWeek, 6 July 2026
  • There are probably easier ways to mount a crime thriller steeped in gritty realism than centering it on a villain made of gas.
    — Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 6 July 2026
Definition of realism
Noun
  • Holden’s moral rigor is refreshing in a cultural moment marked by an unsettling mix of cynicism and heedlessness.
    — Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 7 July 2026
  • Once again, Adam Elliot balances deep cynicism with wonderment in the challenging and funny film, with a great many unexpected twists.
    — Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 1 July 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 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on pragmatism

Nglish: Translation of pragmatism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pragmatism

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