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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


utilitarian

adjective

Definition: designed for utility without regard to other values, like aesthetics

Synonyms: practical, functional, pragmatic, realistic, workable, useful

Antonyms: impractical, useless

Tips: Utilitarian comes from utility. The related word utilitarianism is a philosophical belief that the value of something should be determined by its utility. Although utilitarian may be used when referring specifically to this doctrine, it is most often used to describe things that are useful rather than beautiful. It can also be used as a noun, to refer to someone who believes that an object's value depends on its utility or usefulness.

Usage Examples:

Most of the office buildings in the area are utilitarian and not very attractive. (functional, pragmatic, practical)

Jack bought the convertible more for appearance than for the utilitarian purpose of transportation. (useful, practical, functional)

Mary dresses in a plain, utilitarian style and only buys comfortable clothes that do not wrinkle or wear out easily. (practical, sensible)

Although this office space is definitely utilitarian, I don't like it because it's not in a nice part of town. (practical, functional, workable)


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