Pragmatic is a word that describes a mindset focused on practicality and realism. Pragmatic people think about what works in reality and prioritize real-life situations over ideas or theories. This makes pragmatic people smart and capable problem-solvers. They can assess a situation and make wise choices based on what’s feasible and likely to yield positive results.
A practical person takes into account the actual circumstances and resources available to them and focuses on what will actually work in the given situation. This approach is often a good fit for businesses that want to be successful. Pragmatism also applies to everyday life and is often a great way to teach kids about the importance of being a responsible decision maker.
One of the best ways to explain pragmatism is by using an example. For example, when making a decision, a pragmatic person will consider their goals and priorities, the time frame for accomplishing those goals, the financial implications of different options, and their work-life balance. They will also take into consideration any other potential ramifications of their choice. In doing so, they will choose the path that will most likely achieve their goal and have a positive impact on their lives.
Another popular way to describe pragmatism is by calling someone “pragmatic.” This can mean that they are an honest person who is not easily deceived. It can also mean that they are a realistic person who sees what is happening and is not stuck in their beliefs or ideologies. This can be a positive trait, especially when it comes to business and politics.
There are many other ways to use and define pragmatism, but in a general sense it is a mentality that emphasizes practicality and realism. It is an ideal that can be a great fit for businesses that want to be successful, as well as people who are looking for a more sensible and realistic approach to life.
Pragmatic is a subfield of the broader field of linguistics, and it studies how context contributes to meaning. This includes understanding how people understand each other when they communicate, determining how language is used in different social contexts, and figuring out what kinds of messages are conveyed by ambiguity. Linguists who specialize in pragmatics are called pragmaticians.
Some philosophers have characterized pragmatics as the study of what is done with signs, rather than what they mean. Others have focused on the role of a sign’s interpreter. The latter is sometimes referred to as ‘near-side’ pragmatics, and the former as ‘far-side’ pragmatics.
Pragmatics is a fascinating and complex subject that can be divided into several categories. These include formal and computational pragmatics; theoretical and applied pragmatics; game-theoretic and experimental pragmatics; clinical and neuropragmatics; intercultural and cross-linguistic pragmatics; and historical pragmatics. Each of these areas is a significant part of the larger picture of how people communicate. To learn more about pragmatics, check out our digital booklet: “Supporting Pragmatic and Social Communication Skills in Deaf Children.” You can download it by clicking here.
