Practical vs. Logical — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 8, 2024
Practical approaches focus on real-world application and effectiveness, while logical ones prioritize reasoning and theoretical consistency.
Difference Between Practical and Logical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Practicality involves approaches and solutions that are directly applicable and effective in real-world scenarios, emphasizing hands-on experience and tangible results. On the other hand, logic is concerned with the form and validity of reasoning, prioritizing coherence, and theoretical soundness over immediate applicability.
While practical methods are often judged based on their outcomes and efficiency in achieving specific goals, logical approaches are evaluated for their argumentative soundness, consistency, and adherence to established principles of reasoning.
Practical thinking is typically action-oriented, seeking to solve problems through feasible and immediate means. Whereas, logical thinking is analytical and abstract, focusing on deducing conclusions from premises according to rules of logic, regardless of the practical feasibility.
In the realm of decision-making, practicality often leads to solutions that can be quickly implemented and are cost-effective, relying on experience and common sense. In contrast, logical decision-making involves a rigorous analysis of all available information and potential outcomes based on deductive reasoning.
Practical knowledge is usually acquired through experience and can be highly contextual, tailored to specific situations or challenges. Logical knowledge, however, is derived from the study of formal systems of thought, such as mathematics and philosophy, and is universal in nature.
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Comparison Chart
Focus
Real-world application and effectiveness
Reasoning and theoretical consistency
Evaluation Criteria
Outcomes and efficiency
Argumentative soundness and consistency
Orientation
Action-oriented
Analytical and abstract
Decision-making
Quick implementation, cost-effectiveness
Rigorous analysis, deductive reasoning
Knowledge Acquisition
Experience, context-specific
Formal study, universal
Compare with Definitions
Practical
Pertaining to practice or action, focusing on the application and effectiveness of solutions in real-world situations.
Practical skills like cooking are essential for daily living.
Logical
Pertaining to or characterized by the principles of logic.
His argument was logical, based on sound reasoning and evidence.
Practical
Emphasizing the pragmatic and feasible aspects of doing something.
She has a practical mindset, always looking for the most efficient way to complete tasks.
Logical
Involving the systematic arrangement of information.
The database was designed according to logical principles for efficient retrieval.
Practical
Being realistic and sensible in expectations or proposals.
We need to make practical decisions that reflect our budget constraints.
Logical
Reflecting or based on formal logic or deductive reasoning.
The scientist used a logical framework to test her hypothesis.
Practical
Relating to the practicalities or pragmatic aspects of a situation.
Practical considerations often outweigh theoretical ideals in business.
Logical
Concerned with clear and consistent reasoning.
Logical thinking is essential for solving complex mathematical problems.
Practical
Concerned with actual use rather than theoretical considerations.
His practical approach to problem-solving saved the company time and money.
Logical
Being reasonable or making sense in a coherent manner.
It's logical to assume that increasing demand will lead to higher prices.
Practical
Of or concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than with theory and ideas
There are two obvious practical applications of the research
Logical
According to the rules of logic; as, a logical argument or inference; the reasoning is logical; a logical argument; a logical impossibility.
Practical
(of an idea, plan, or method) likely to succeed or be effective in real circumstances; feasible
Neither of these strategies are practical for smaller businesses
Logical
Marked by an orderly, logical, and aesthetically consistent relation of parts;
A logical argument
The orderly presentation
Practical
So nearly the case that it can be regarded as so; virtual
For all practical purposes, she's his girlfriend
Logical
Based on known statements or events or conditions;
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year
Practical
An examination or lesson in which theories and procedures learned are applied to the actual making or doing of something.
Logical
Of, relating to, in accordance with, or of the nature of logic
Logical disputation.
Practical
Of, relating to, governed by, or acquired through practice or action, rather than theory or speculation
Gained practical experience of sailing as a deck hand.
Logical
Based on earlier or otherwise known statements, events, or conditions; reasonable
Rain was a logical expectation, given the time of year.
Practical
Manifested in or involving practice
Practical applications of calculus.
Logical
Reasoning or capable of reasoning in a clear and consistent manner
A very logical person.
Practical
Capable of or suitable to being used or put into effect; useful
Practical knowledge of Japanese. See Usage Note at practicable.
Logical
(not comparable) In agreement with the principles of logic.
Practical
Concerned with the production or operation of something useful
Woodworking is a practical art.
Logical
Reasonable.
Practical
Having or showing good judgment; sensible
If we're practical, we can do the job quickly.
Logical
(not comparable) Of or pertaining to logic.
It's not logical, it's God!
Practical
Being actually so in almost every respect; virtual
The snowstorm was a practical disaster.
Logical
(computing) Relating to the conceptual model of a system rather than its physical expression
Logical memory appears contiguous to an application program, but may well be stored on several physical devices, including in RAM and on hard-disks, as determined by the operating system.
Practical
Relating to, or based on, practice or action rather than theory or hypothesis.
Jack didn't get an engineering degree, but has practical knowledge of metalworking.
Modern engineering applies science to practical problems.
Logical
Of or pertaining to logic; used in logic; as, logical subtilties.
Practical
Being likely to be effective and applicable to a real situation; able to be put to use
Jack's knowledge has the practical benefit of giving us useful prototype parts.
Logical
Skilled in logic; versed in the art of thinking and reasoning; as, he is a logical thinker.
Practical
Of a person, having skills or knowledge that are practical
All in all, Jack's a very practical chap.
Logical
Capable of or reflecting the capability for correct and valid reasoning;
A logical mind
Practical
Of a prop: having some degree of functionality, rather than being a mere imitation.
Logical
In accordance with reason or logic;
A logical conclusion
Practical
(film) Light fixtures used for set lighting and seen in the frame of a shot as part of the scenery.
Practical lighting can help sell the illusion that the film is a real situation.
Logical
Capable of thinking and expressing yourself in a clear and consistent manner;
A lucid thinker
She was more coherent than she had been just after the accident
Practical
(British) A part of an exam or series of exams in which the candidate has to demonstrate their practical ability
Practical
(theater) A prop that has some degree of functionality, rather than being a mere imitation.
Practical
(film) A light fixture used for set lighting and seen in the frame of a shot as part of the scenery.
Practical
Laboratory experiment, test or investigation
Practical
Of or pertaining to practice or action.
Practical
Capable of being turned to use or account; useful, in distinction from ideal or theoretical; as, practical chemistry.
Practical
Evincing practice or skill; capable of applying knowledge to some useful end; as, a practical man; a practical mind.
Practical
Derived from practice; as, practical skill.
Practical
Concerned with actual use or practice;
He is a very practical person
The idea had no practical application
A practical knowledge of Japanese
Woodworking is a practical art
Practical
Guided by practical experience and observation rather than theory;
A hardheaded appraisal of our position
A hard-nosed labor leader
Completely practical in his approach to business
Not ideology but pragmatic politics
Practical
Being actually such in almost every respect;
A practical failure
The once elegant temple lay in virtual ruin
Practical
Having or put to a practical purpose or use;
Practical mathematics
Practical applications of calculus
Common Curiosities
Are practical skills valued more than logical reasoning in the workplace?
The value of practical skills versus logical reasoning varies by job and industry; both are often considered essential for success.
Can practical knowledge be derived from logical analysis?
Yes, practical knowledge can sometimes be derived from logical analysis, especially when theoretical insights lead to real-world applications.
How do practical and logical approaches differ in problem-solving?
Practical approaches focus on immediate, actionable solutions, while logical approaches prioritize thorough analysis and the soundness of the reasoning process.
Is logical thinking necessary for practical outcomes?
Logical thinking can enhance the effectiveness of practical outcomes by ensuring decisions are based on sound reasoning, but it is not always necessary.
Can a solution be practical but not logical?
Yes, a solution can be practical by effectively solving a problem in the real world even if it does not follow conventional logic or reasoning.
How is logical reasoning tested?
Logical reasoning is tested through puzzles, problems, and scenarios that require the application of logic principles to arrive at correct conclusions.
Can logical reasoning lead to impractical conclusions?
Yes, logical reasoning can sometimes lead to conclusions that are theoretically sound but impractical to implement in real-world scenarios.
How does one develop practical skills?
Practical skills are developed through hands-on experience, practice, and applying knowledge to real-life situations.
Can a person be both highly practical and highly logical?
Yes, individuals can possess both practical skills and logical reasoning abilities, and integrating both can lead to highly effective problem-solving.
How do education systems cultivate practical and logical skills?
Education systems cultivate practical skills through experiential learning and logical skills through disciplines that emphasize critical thinking, analysis, and reasoning.
Can logical fallacies lead to practical success?
While logical fallacies undermine sound reasoning, they can sometimes result in practical success if they lead to effective solutions by coincidence or unconventional thinking.
Do practical decisions always involve compromise?
Practical decisions often involve compromise, balancing ideal outcomes with what is feasible given real-world constraints.
How do cultures influence practical versus logical thinking?
Cultural values and educational systems can influence the emphasis on practical versus logical thinking, shaping how individuals approach problems and decisions.
Is it better to be practical or logical in life decisions?
Neither approach is universally better; the best approach depends on the specific context and the nature of the decision to be made.
How do practical and logical approaches impact innovation?
Practical approaches can lead to immediate solutions and applications, while logical approaches can provide a foundational understanding that fuels innovation.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
