What does idealistically mean?
Idealistically is an adverb describing conduct or thinking guided by an idealized vision of what is desirable, perfect, or possible. It can indicate principled commitment, such as idealistically believing in equality or justice, but it may also suggest a gap between high aspirations and practical reality. The word is commonly used in contexts involving politics, education, social reform, art, and personal motivation. Unlike ideally, which focuses on the best possible outcome, idealistically emphasizes the perspective or attitude from which an action is taken. For example, someone may idealistically pursue a project because of its social value, even when practical obstacles are considerable. The adverb is particularly useful when discussing the tension between idealism and realism and can carry a subtly critical tone when it implies naive or impractical expectations.
adverbIn a way that is based on ideals, especially ideals that are considered desirable or perfect. It describes an attitude, approach, or motivation guided by principles rather than practical circumstances.
- Based on or guided by ideals, especially an idealized or aspirational view of how things should be.
"She remained idealistically committed to improving public education, despite the difficulties involved."
"The architect idealistically designed the building for an ideal community rather than the needs of its current occupants."
"Many young activists remain idealistically hopeful despite political setbacks."
To be idealistic is to aim at a better world; to be idealistically is to do so with your eyes open.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does idealistically come from?
The adverb idealistically derives from the adjective idealistic, which in turn comes from ideal, ultimately from the Latin word idealis, meaning “relating to an idea.” The suffix -istic contributes the sense of being characterized by a particular principle or outlook, while -ally forms the corresponding adverb. The word belongs to a family including ideal, idealism, ideality, and ideological, all reflecting the Greek-Latin vocabulary of ideas and exemplary forms.
How idealistically is actually used
Often carries a mildly critical or ironic connotation when it implies that someone overlooks practical constraints, although it can also be used approvingly to describe principled or idealistic motivation.
Easily confused with idealistically
Ideally describes what is desirable or optimal, whereas idealistically describes acting according to idealistic principles or expectations.