1. Meaning of the Word:
“Ideal” refers to a perfect or most suitable standard, often representing an aspiration or the best possible scenario. It can describe something that embodies excellence or perfection, or an image of perfection that one strives to achieve.
2. Definitions and Meaning in English:
- Ideal (noun): A concept or standard of perfection, something that is considered the best or most desirable.
- Ideal (adjective): Representing a perfect state, condition, or standard, free from imperfections or flaws.
- Ideal (noun): A person or thing regarded as a perfect example or model.
3. History and Origin:
The word “ideal” originates from the Late Latin idealis, meaning “pertaining to an idea,” from the Greek idea, meaning “form or pattern.” It entered English in the 16th century, initially describing a concept of perfection in philosophy. Over time, it broadened to represent a perfect standard in various fields, including personal qualities, situations, or material objects.
4. Detailed Explanation:
“Ideal” is used to describe something that is considered perfect or the best representation of a desired quality, condition, or concept. As an adjective, it refers to something that is flawless or as close to perfection as possible. As a noun, it represents an image or standard of excellence that serves as a goal or aspiration. The term is often subjective, varying based on individual or cultural perspectives. For instance, an “ideal job” could mean a perfect balance of work and life for one person, while it could represent high income and prestige for another.
5. Example Sentences (9 examples):
- She was the ideal candidate for the job, with all the right qualifications.
- The perfect vacation destination is often a matter of personal ideal.
- Their relationship seemed ideal, with mutual respect and shared values.
- The design was considered ideal for both aesthetics and functionality.
- His idea of an ideal city includes green spaces and minimal traffic.
- The school strives to create an ideal learning environment for all students.
- She felt she had finally found her ideal home in the countryside.
- The company is working towards the ideal of zero waste in its operations.
- His ideal day involves spending time with family and pursuing personal interests.
6. Synonyms with short explanation (5):
- Perfect – Without flaws or defects; representing the highest standard.
- Exemplary – Serving as a model or ideal example of something.
- Flawless – Completely without imperfections or errors.
- Optimal – The most effective or favorable condition or solution.
- Utopian – Representing an imagined perfect society or condition, often unrealistic.
7. Related Words with short explanation (5):
- Paradise – A perfect place or state of happiness, often used to describe an ideal environment.
- Model – A standard or example to be imitated, often representing an ideal form.
- Perfection – The state of being without flaws or defects, often considered the ideal state.
- Aspiration – A goal or ambition to achieve something that is considered ideal or perfect.
- Visionary – A person who imagines or works toward ideal or perfect conditions, often with innovative ideas.
8. More Matches with short explanation (5):
- Dream – An idealized vision or desire, often seen as unattainable.
- Standard – A level of quality or attainment regarded as ideal or acceptable.
- Aspire – To aim or strive toward something ideal or perfect.
- Infallible – Incapable of making mistakes or being wrong, often seen as an ideal trait.
- Excellence – The quality of being outstanding or extremely good, often viewed as an ideal goal.
9. Antonyms:
- Imperfect – Not perfect; having flaws or defects.
- Deficient – Lacking necessary qualities or standards, not ideal.
- Flawed – Containing imperfections or faults; not ideal.
- Substandard – Below the level of quality or excellence considered ideal.
- Unrealistic – Not achievable or practical, unlike the ideal scenario.