# utopian

/juˈtoʊpiən/ (US) · /juːtˈəʊpiən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/utopian
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

describing a perfect world or society where everything is ideal. You use this to talk about plans or ideas that are wonderful but often impossible to achieve in real life.

For teachers: relating to or aiming for a state of social or political perfection. Often carries a connotation of being idealistic to the point of impracticality.

## Examples

- The architect had a utopian vision for the new city.
- Many early political thinkers wrote about utopian societies where every citizen lived in total harmony and equality.
- While the project began with utopian goals of universal access and zero waste, the team eventually had to make concessions to address the harsh realities of the local economy.

## Usage notes

- Can be used both attributively before a noun and predicatively after a linking verb like 'seem' or 'sound'.

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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.