idealistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'idealistic' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe someone who has very idealistic beliefs or is overly optimistic. For example: "He is a very idealistic person, believing that every day can be perfect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On foreign policy, she says she is neither a realist nor an idealist but an "idealistic realist".

The Economist

Plenty of idealistic working-class men and women have made their way into the political establishment and decided that it suits them after all and they're running with it.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is also the lack of willingness by activists and voters to read, discuss, debate or respond to green issues with anything other than an emotional, idealistic response.

The Guardian

Not much has changed, it seems, in the Brown mindset since those early, idealistic days of 1989.

The Guardian - Music

"And the young are too idealistic to know that it's pointless".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Wenlock, named after the Shropshire site of Britain's first Olympic revival, was a special token of this idealistic commitment.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's idealistic, it's the right thing to do even if it turns out to be utterly futile.

The Guardian

"There's a sense politics has become managerial and not idealistic," he said.

The Guardian

The Green party pretends to be idealistic and ambitious but encourages defeatism with its complete refusal to accept that there has been progress in tackling climate change.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only now was he throwing in his lot with a US government that detested the idealistic but ramshackle coalition of six parties headed by Dr Salvador Allende, the country doctor and upstanding freemason who was set on introducing elements of social democracy in a country long organised for the benefit of the landowners, industrialists and money men.

The Guardian

It may sound like idealistic whimsy, but Niyonkuru says defeating a widespread sense of fatalism allowed him to create a grassroots-driven model of empowerment in his native Burundi, now locked in crisis after weeks of protest and an attempted coup.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "idealistic", consider the context to determine if it accurately reflects the intended meaning. It often implies a focus on ideals that may not be practical.

Common error

Avoid using "idealistic" in contexts where a more neutral or factual term is appropriate. It can sometimes come across as dismissive or condescending.

Linguistic Context

The word "idealistic" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe someone or something characterized by idealism. This aligns with Ludwig AI's confirmation that it's correct and usable, illustrated by various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "idealistic" is a commonly used adjective to describe someone or something characterized by idealism, often with a focus on hopes and dreams for a better world. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Formal & Business and Science. While generally neutral, the term's register can lean towards formal depending on the source. While being "idealistic" is generally seen as positive, it's important to consider the context to avoid unintended connotations of impracticality. When writing, consider synonyms like "visionary" or "optimistic", but be aware of the nuanced differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

visionary

Implies a strong focus on the future and innovative thinking.

optimistic

Focuses on a positive outlook and expectation of favorable outcomes.

utopian

Suggests an idealistic view that is often impractical or unattainable.

principled

Emphasizes adherence to moral principles and ethical standards.

noble

Highlights high moral qualities and ideals.

altruistic

Focuses on selfless concern for the well-being of others.

quixotic

Suggests impracticality and romantic idealism.

perfectionistic

Implies striving for flawlessness and ideal standards.

hopeful

Emphasizes a feeling of optimism and anticipation of positive outcomes.

romantic

Highlights a focus on emotion, beauty, and the ideal.

FAQs

How can I use "idealistic" in a sentence?

You can use "idealistic" to describe someone who has high hopes and dreams, often focusing on making the world a better place. For example, "The young volunteers had an "idealistic" vision of a world without poverty."

What are some synonyms for "idealistic"?

Synonyms for "idealistic" include "visionary", "optimistic", and "utopian". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is being "idealistic" always a positive trait?

While being "idealistic" often implies positive intentions, it can sometimes be seen as impractical or unrealistic. The context determines whether it's viewed favorably or critically.

What is the difference between "idealistic" and "realistic"?

"Idealistic" focuses on ideals and hopes, often disregarding practical limitations, while "realistic" focuses on what is achievable and practical, even if it's not perfect. Someone can be an "idealistic realist", combining both perspectives.