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Definitions

practical

[prak-ti-kuhl] / ˈpræk tɪ kəl /
ADJECTIVE
realistic, useful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
businesslike constructive down-to-earth efficient factual feasible functional possible practicable pragmatic rational reasonable sane sensible sober workable
WEAK
applied both feet on the ground commonsensical doable empirical experimental handy hard-boiled implicit in action in operation matter-of-fact nuts and bolts operative orderly serviceable solid sound systematic unidealistic unromantic usable utile utilitarian virtual workaday working
Antonyms
STRONGEST
excited impossible impractical inefficient irrational unattainable unfeasible unlikely unrealistic unreasonable unsound unworkable
WEAK
incapable inexperienced unproficient unseasoned unserviceable unskilled untrained useless worthless
ADJECTIVE
experienced, proficient
Synonyms
STRONGEST
effective efficient sophisticated
WEAK
accomplished cosmopolitan qualified seasoned skilled trained versed vet veteran working worldly worldly-wise
Antonyms
STRONGEST
impotent ineffective weak
WEAK
impossible impractical incapable inefficient inexperienced unfeasible unproficient unrealistic unseasoned unserviceable unskilled untrained unworkable useless worthless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Researchers say the approach offers a "practical, scalable solution" to the "widespread loss" of essential coastal ecosystems.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

This step is critical for turning laboratory discoveries into practical tools that doctors can use.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump called "for a practical plan" to get shipping moving again through the Strait of Hormuz following the US-Iranian ceasefire, the UK leader's office said.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

In terms of a practical response, the Palace has already taken unprecedented action in how it stripped the former Prince Andrew of his titles and removed him from his home.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Père Lafontant despised the concept because he knew what it meant in practical terms: the simplest technology was for the poor, while the rich had the resources to afford the best technology.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Vocabulary lists containing practical

Positive Adjectives to Describe People

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Nothing But the Truth

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List 13

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