The Opposite(Antonym) of “idealistic”
The antonyms of idealistic are pragmatic, realistic, and cynical. The antonyms pragmatic and realistic describe a practical approach to situations, while cynical implies a distrustful or negative attitude towards people or situations.
Definitions and Examples of pragmatic, realistic, cynical
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
Example
She took a pragmatic approach to the problem and found a solution that worked for everyone.
Having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected.
Example
He had a realistic view of his abilities and knew he needed to work hard to achieve his goals.
Distrustful of human nature and motives; believing that people are motivated by self-interest.
Example
After years of disappointment, he had become cynical about politics and didn't believe any politician could be trusted.
Key Differences: pragmatic vs realistic vs cynical
- 1Pragmatic describes a practical approach to situations, while idealistic describes an approach based on high ideals or principles.
- 2Realistic describes having a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected, while idealistic describes an approach based on lofty or unrealistic ideals.
- 3Cynical implies a distrustful or negative attitude towards people or situations, while idealistic implies a positive and optimistic attitude towards people or situations.
Effective Usage of pragmatic, realistic, cynical
- 1Enhance Communication: Use pragmatic, realistic, and cynical to express different attitudes towards situations.
- 2Show Empathy: Incorporate antonyms in conversations to demonstrate understanding of different perspectives.
- 3Enrich Writing: Utilize these antonyms in writing to create nuanced characters and realistic situations.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Pragmatic and realistic describe practical approaches, while cynical implies a negative attitude. Idealistic implies a positive and optimistic attitude towards people or situations. Use these words to enhance communication, show empathy in conversations, and enrich writing by creating nuanced characters and realistic situations.
