Synonyms for

Ideals

Verb / aɪˈdi:lz / Another word for ideals — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Ideals are principles or values that a person or society believes are important and worth pursuing.

Synonyms & similar words

nonpareil apotheosis nonesuch paragon ideal nonsuch saint beliefs values principles standards ethics morals virtues credo dogma doctrine philosophy tenets convictions code canons creed faith maxims rules teachings

Synonyms by register

Formal

principles standards values tenets

Informal

beliefs hopes dreams visions

Literary

aspirations paragons quintessences

Antonyms

realities pragmatism practicalities facts actualities materialism

Common collocations

  • cherish ideals
  • pursue ideals
  • high ideals
  • noble ideals
  • set ideals
  • achieve ideals
  • lose sight of ideals

Word family

noun ideal
adjective ideal
adverb ideally

Usage note

Often used in the plural, 'ideals' refers to a standard of perfection or excellence. It can sometimes imply a detachment from reality, especially when contrasted with 'realities' or 'practicalities'.

Example sentences

  1. My ideals shape my decisions and actions.
  2. She strives to live up to her ideals of compassion and generosity.
  3. The company's ideals are centered around sustainability and innovation.
  4. The school promotes ideals of inclusivity and equality.
  5. Our society's ideals have evolved over time.

Quotes

  • "Ideals are like the stars: we never reach them, but like the mariners of the sea, we chart our course by them." - Carl Schurz
  • "An idealist is one who, on noticing that roses smell better than a cabbage, concludes that it will also make better soup." - H.L. Mencken
  • "The ideal has many names, and beauty is but one of them." - W. Somerset Maugham

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