ENGLISH
REFERENCE

idealistic

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //aɪˌdiəˈɫɪstɪk// UK //aɪdˈiəlˈɪstɪk// ide·al·is·tic

adj. believing that very good things can be achieved, even when others think it is not realistic. You use this to describe someone who follows high principles or dreams of a perfect world.

adj. characterised by the pursuit of high principles or perfection, often at the expense of pragmatism. Frequently used to describe individuals or policies that prioritise moral or social goals over practical constraints.


SIMPLE

She has idealistic plans to end poverty in her city.

CONTEXTUAL

Many young voters are idealistic and want to see immediate, radical changes in environmental policy.

COMPLEX

While critics dismissed the proposal as purely idealistic, its supporters argued that a vision of a better future was necessary to inspire meaningful legislative reform.

Synonyms
Origin

From idealist + -ic or ideal + -istic.

Usage

Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'remain'.

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