Practical describes something that is useful and realistic in everyday situations, rather than just theoretical or ideal. It can also refer to learning by doing, not just by studying.
“Practical” comes from Late Latin *practicus*, from Greek *praktikos*, “concerned with action,” from *prassein*, “to do.” It has always contrasted with merely thinking or imagining.
Being practical isn’t the opposite of being smart; it’s a different kind of intelligence focused on “What will actually work here?” That’s why some brilliant ideas fail in real life—they’re clever but not practical.
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