Impractical

/ɪmˈpræktɪkəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Not conducive to practicality; not suitable for use or application in real-world situations.

The plan to build a floating city seemed exciting but was ultimately impractical given the costs involved.

Not sensible or realistic; unable to be achieved or carried out effectively.

His idea of traveling to every country in the world within a year turned out to be impractical due to time and budget constraints.

Having no practical value or utility.

She found the concept art to be beautiful, but it was too impractical for actual game design.

Derived from 'im-' meaning 'not' and 'practical' which refers to being concerned with actual use or practice.

back to the drawing board

A phrase used when a plan or idea has failed and it is necessary to start again from the beginning.

think outside the box

To think creatively and not be limited by traditional or expected ideas.

pie in the sky

An unrealistic or overly optimistic idea or plan.

practical

Concerned with what is actually possible or beneficial.

theoretical

Based on theory; not practical or applied.

idealistic

Characterized by or pursuing ideals, often unrealistically.

Out to lunch

His idea about building a theme park in the desert is just out to lunch.

Living in a dream world

She’s living in a dream world if she thinks that can work.