Question

Choose the word closest in meaning to "Pragmatic."

• A. Idealistic
• B. Practical
• C. Theoretical
• D. Imaginative
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Hint:

For synonym questions, test the word in a practical sentence context to confirm it can be used interchangeably with the given word, and eliminate opposites or unrelated terms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

- Step 1: Define "Pragmatic." "Pragmatic" means dealing with things realistically and practically, focusing on practical solutions rather than ideals or theories, often in problem-solving contexts.
- Step 2: Identify the synonym. A synonym for pragmatic should convey a focus on practicality or realistic approaches.
- Step 3: Evaluate the options.
- Option (1): "Idealistic" means pursuing ideals, often unrealistically, which is opposite to pragmatic's practical focus, so it is incorrect.
- Option (2): "Practical" means focused on realistic and effective solutions, closely matching pragmatic's meaning, making it a strong candidate.
- Option (3): "Theoretical" implies abstract or speculative thinking, contrary to pragmatic's practicality, so it is incorrect.
- Option (4): "Imaginative" suggests creativity or inventiveness, which does not align with pragmatic's focus on realism, so it is incorrect.
- Step 4: Eliminate opposites. Idealistic and Theoretical are antonyms or unrelated to pragmatic, as they focus on ideals or abstraction. Imaginative is also unrelated, leaving Practical as the best match.
- Step 5: Confirm with context. In a sentence like "A pragmatic approach solved the issue," substituting "practical" as "A practical approach solved the issue" maintains the meaning, confirming the synonymy.
- Step 6: Final conclusion. Option (2) Practical is the correct answer, as it is the closest synonym to "Pragmatic."
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