ideal thinking vs idealistic thinking

Both 'ideal thinking' and 'idealistic thinking' are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. 'Ideal thinking' refers to thinking that is perfect or the best possible, while 'idealistic thinking' refers to thinking that is based on or characterized by idealism, which is the belief in or pursuit of noble principles, goals, or values.

Last updated: March 24, 2024

ideal thinking

This phrase is correct and refers to thinking that is perfect or the best possible.

This phrase is used to describe thinking that is considered to be the most desirable or optimal in a given situation.

Examples:

In an ideal world, ideal thinking would always lead to the best outcomes.
His approach to problem-solving is characterized by ideal thinking.
She encourages her students to engage in ideal thinking when considering solutions.
The team's success was attributed to their ideal thinking and innovative strategies.
Ideal thinking can help us envision a better future.

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I was thinking Mr. Scott might be an ideal candidate.
Actually, I was thinking La Forge's implants might make him an ideal test subject for my experiment.
I fully support the sound thinking behind cross-border cooperation, as this is a European ideal.
This is a significant change in our way of thinking and reverts back to the original ideals of European integration.
We have played safe by falling back into the comfort zone of either past imperialistic ideals or post-fascist commands or even, dare I say it, new 20th-century thinking with regard to human life and human rights.
It would be ideal. I think it is a good idea to carry on thinking about it, but it is urgent.
I'm thinking it's less than ideal to show a house with a crater in the wall.
Ive been thinking he should in principle be a musician who shares our partys ideals, if possible, one of its members, lets say, a musician whos addicted to it.
I am also thinking of the small businessmen in this sector who live in daily fear of going bankrupt, victims of the criminal dogma of free and undistorted competition, who are very far removed today from the ideals that first led them to become self-employed.
I am thinking, in particular, of oil protein crops, which, I would remind you, are ideal rotation crops to produce quality cereals, something we are increasingly trying to do.
But actually, what's even more important than remembering what's been edited out is thinking, are the ideals good?
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, I should first like to pay tribute to our colleague Fernand Herman, because this is the last report he will be presenting and it is one which reflects his commitment to European thinking and the European ideal.
Of course, in an ideal world, again we'd love to do everything. But if we don't do it, then we can start thinking about where should we start?

Alternatives:

perfect thinking
optimal thinking
best thinking
excellent thinking
idealized thinking

idealistic thinking

This phrase is correct and refers to thinking that is based on or characterized by idealism.

This phrase is used to describe thinking that is guided by noble principles, goals, or values, often with an emphasis on the pursuit of perfection or the best possible outcomes.