What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
practicalism
Example
The company's practicalism helped it survive the economic downturn. [practicalism: noun]
Example
She was known for her practicalism and ability to find solutions to complex problems. [practicalism: noun]
pragmatism
Example
His pragmatism allowed him to find a solution to the problem quickly. [pragmatism: noun]
Example
Pragmatism is a philosophy that values practical experience over abstract theory. [pragmatism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pragmatism is a more common term than practicalism and has been in use for over a century. It is widely used in academic and intellectual circles and is a recognized philosophical movement. Practicalism is a less established term and may be less familiar to many people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between practicalism and pragmatism?
Pragmatism is often used in academic and intellectual contexts and may be considered more formal than practicalism. However, both words can be used in a variety of contexts and formality levels.