PoliticsJuly 13, 2026

pragmatist

/ˈpræɡmətɪst/

Definition

A person who is guided more by practical considerations and the reality of the current political environment than by rigid adherence to previously held principles or ideologies.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'pragma', meaning 'deed' or 'act', the term entered English in the 19th century through the philosophy of pragmatism. It refers to one who focuses on the practical consequences of actions rather than theoretical or idealistic concerns.

In the news

The article describes supporters who viewed Graham as a pragmatist for adjusting his stances to navigate the changing political landscape under Donald Trump. Conversely, critics viewed this same behavior as evidence of political opportunism.

Sen. Lindsey Graham's career marked by reversals, including on Trump

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USA Today

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