idealistic thinking

[/ˌaɪdiəˈlɪstɪk ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/]
noun
pensamento idealista
1. A mode of thought characterized by the pursuit of ideals and principles rather than practical or pragmatic considerations; belief that ideals can be realized despite obstacles
Her idealistic thinking led her to believe that all social problems could be solved through education and compassion.
Seu pensamento idealista a levou a acreditar que todos os problemas sociais poderiam ser resolvidos através da educação e compaixão.
2. A philosophical perspective that prioritizes ideas, principles, and moral values over material reality or practical outcomes
The young activist's idealistic thinking inspired many but faced criticism from pragmatists.
O pensamento idealista do jovem ativista inspirou muitos, mas enfrentou críticas dos pragmáticos.
3. The tendency to envision an idealized version of reality rather than accepting current conditions as they are
His idealistic thinking about human nature sometimes blinds him to people's actual behavior.
Seu pensamento idealista sobre a natureza humana às vezes o cega para o comportamento real das pessoas.
In Brazil, idealistic thinking is often associated with youth movements, social activism, and progressive politics. It carries both positive connotations (hope, vision for change) and negative ones (naïveté, disconnection from reality). In American culture, especially in the US, idealistic thinking is romanticized in political campaigns and social movements but often critiqued in business and policy-making contexts as impractical.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
idealistic outlookvisionary thinkingutopian thinkingidealismprincipled thinkingaspirational thinking
Antonyms / Antônimos
pragmatic thinkingrealistic thinkingcynicismmaterialismpractical approachskepticism

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
pensamento idealista
Most common and widely understood across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
mentalidade idealista
Alternative phrasing occasionally used in informal speech
São Paulo
pensamento idealista
Standard usage, particularly in academic and business contexts
Portugal
pensamento idealista
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; used in academic and formal contexts

Related Words

idealistideologyprincipleutopiaaspirationmoral valuespragmatismrealism

Related Idioms & Phrases

have your head in the clouds
wear rose-tinted glasses
live in an ivory tower
pie in the sky
castles in the air
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