How Do You Spell UTILITARIAN?

Pronunciation: [jˌuːtɪlɪtˈe͡əɹi͡ən] (IPA)

Utilitarian is a word that is often misspelled due to its unusual combination of letters. The correct spelling of this word is /yo͞oˌtiləˈterēən/. The word is derived from the philosophy of utilitarianism, which emphasizes the practicality and usefulness of actions. The tricky part of spelling this word is combining the "u," "i," "t," and "a" sounds. Remembering to include the "a" after the "t" and before the "i" is key to spelling utilitarian correctly.

UTILITARIAN Meaning and Definition

1. Utilitarian is an adjective that refers to something or someone that is characterized by or adheres to the principles of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is a philosophical theory that prioritizes the maximization of overall happiness or well-being as the ultimate goal. It suggests that actions, laws, or policies should be evaluated based on their overall utility, which is determined by the net balance of positive and negative consequences they generate.

   In a broader sense, when describing someone as utilitarian, it means they primarily focus on the practicality and efficiency of things. They are concerned with achieving the greatest overall good or utility for the majority of people, often disregarding individual preferences or concerns. This perspective values actions that lead to the most favorable outcomes for the larger population, often emphasizing the importance of societal welfare over personal or emotional gratification.

   Furthermore, the term utilitarian can also describe things or objects that are designed, created, or intended to serve a specific purpose or practical function. Utilitarian designs prioritize usefulness and functionality rather than emphasizing aesthetics or ornamental aspects.

   Overall, utilitarian encompasses a philosophy, an individual's mindset, and a design principle, all converging on the pursuit of practicality, functionality, and the maximization of overall well-being or utility in decision-making processes.

2. • One who holds the doctrine of utilitarianism.

   • Pert. to utility or things useful.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for UTILITARIAN *

• utilitarians 30.7692307%
• utiltarian 11.5384615%
• ultilitarian 7.6923076%
• utiliarian 7.6923076%
• utalitarian 7.6923076%
• utilitatian 7.6923076%
• utulitarian 7.6923076%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for UTILITARIAN

• utiliterian
• utlitarian
• ulititarian
• utilatarian
• utilitarean

Etymology of UTILITARIAN

The word "utilitarian" has its origins in the late 18th century and is derived from the Latin word "utilitas", which means "usefulness" or "advantage". The term was first used by British philosopher and social reformer, Jeremy Bentham, and later expanded upon by philosophers like John Stuart Mill. The philosophy of utilitarianism emphasizes maximizing overall happiness or well-being as the basis for moral decisions, prioritizing practical usefulness and utility. Hence, the term "utilitarian" developed to describe a person or approach that focuses on practicality and maximizing overall happiness.

Similar spelling words for UTILITARIAN

• utility bond,
• utility-grade,
• adulterine,
• utilitarianism,
• utility man,
• Utilitarian Utilitarian.

Plural form of UTILITARIAN is UTILITARIANS