# idealism

/aɪˈdiɫɪzəm/ (US) · /aɪdˈiəlɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/idealism
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the belief that you can make the world better or reach a perfect state. It often means focusing on how things should be rather than how they really are.

For teachers: the practice of forming or pursuing ideals, especially in a way that is unrealistic. In a philosophical context, it refers to any system of thought that emphasizes the central role of the ideal or the spiritual in the interpretation of experience.

## Examples

- Her youthful idealism makes her believe she can change the entire world.
- The politician's idealism was tested when he realized that passing the law required making difficult compromises with his rivals.
- While critics dismissed the proposal as pure idealism, the architects argued that a vision of a sustainable city was necessary to inspire actual urban reform.

## Usage notes

- Often contrasted with 'realism' or 'pragmatism'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.