utilitarian
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “utilitarian” mean?
noun.designed to be useful or practical rather than attractive.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in passages discussing philosophy, design, or ethics, emphasizing a focus on practicality and function over aesthetics. It implies a deliberate choice to prioritize usefulness, contrasting with terms like "aesthetic," which highlight beauty or artistic value.
Common Confusions
Utilitarian implies a focus on practicality and function, while aesthetic usually suggests an emphasis on beauty and artistic value.
Example Sentences
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The design was purely utilitarian with no decorative elements.
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The design of the building was strictly utilitarian, prioritizing function over aesthetics to meet the needs of the community efficiently.
Word Parts: How to Remember “utilitarian”
Break “utilitarian” into its parts: -util- (use, useful). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Root:
-util-use, useful (Latin)