Unpractical vs. Impractical — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 4, 2024
"Unpractical" suggests lack of usefulness in practical situations, while "impractical" refers to not sensible or realistic in application.
Difference Between Unpractical and Impractical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Unpractical" is less commonly used and often refers to something that does not serve a practical purpose effectively. Whereas "impractical" is widely used to describe actions, ideas, or items that are not practical due to being unrealistic or inefficient in real-world scenarios.
Unpractical might be used to describe a theoretical approach or concept that lacks application in daily life. On the other hand, impractical often refers to ideas or methods that, while possibly effective in theory, fail in practice due to logistical, financial, or other constraints.
The term "unpractical" can sometimes imply that something is not just impractical but also lacks the potential for practical application. Meanwhile, "impractical" might suggest that while an idea or item could have practical use, external factors make its application unreasonable or unfeasible.
While "unpractical" is not as commonly used in modern English and may be considered archaic or less precise, "impractical" is a staple in contemporary language, accurately conveying the inefficiency or ineffectiveness of an idea or object in practical use.
Despite their nuances, both terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation. However, "impractical" is preferred in formal writing and communication due to its specificity and common usage.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Lacking usefulness in practical situations
Not sensible or realistic in application
Usage Frequency
Less common, sometimes considered archaic
Widely used in contemporary language
Implication
Lacks potential for practical application
Could be practical but is made impractical by external factors
Context
Often refers to theoretical approaches or concepts
Usually describes ideas or methods with failed practicality
Preferred Usage
Rarely used, less precise
Commonly used for its accuracy in conveying inefficiency
Compare with Definitions
Unpractical
Often replaced by "impractical" in usage.
Unpractical ideas are typically called impractical today.
Impractical
Commonly used in modern English.
He often has impractical ideas that sound good in theory.
Unpractical
Rarely the best term to describe impracticality.
Using unpractical instead of impractical is uncommon in modern writing.
Impractical
Reflects inefficiency or ineffectiveness.
An all-glass house is impractical in extreme climates.
Unpractical
Not useful in practical matters.
The architect's vision was unpractical for the small space.
Impractical
Pertains to ideas failing due to external factors.
The plan was impractical due to budget constraints.
Unpractical
Lacking practical application.
Her unpractical knowledge of medieval languages rarely helped in daily life.
Impractical
Not sensible for actual use.
Wearing high heels on a hike is impractical.
Unpractical
Suggestive of theoretical rather than practical value.
The theory is interesting but unpractical.
Impractical
Unrealistic in practical application.
Solar-powered flashlights are impractical in areas with little sunlight.
Unpractical
(rare) Not practical, impractical
Impractical
Not practical; not workable or not given to practical matters;
Refloating the ship proved impractical because of the expense
He is intelligent but too impractical for commercial work
Unpractical
Not practical; impractical.
I like him none the less for being unpractical.
Impractical
Unwise to implement or maintain in practice
Refloating the sunken ship proved impractical because of the great expense.
Impractical
Incapable of dealing efficiently with practical matters, especially finances.
Impractical
Not a part of experience, fact, or practice; theoretical.
Impractical
Impracticable. See Usage Note at impracticable.
Impractical
Not practical; impracticable
Impractical
Not practical.
Impractical
Not practical or realizable; speculative;
Airy theories about socioeconomic improvement
Visionary schemes for getting rich
Common Curiosities
How can I remember the difference between "unpractical" and "impractical"?
Think of "impractical" as being about the impracticality due to external factors, while "unpractical" is less about external constraints and more about a lack of practicality inherently.
Why is "impractical" preferred over "unpractical"?
"Impractical" is more commonly used and is considered more precise in modern English.
What type of ideas are considered impractical?
Ideas that are unrealistic or inefficient due to logistical, financial, or practical constraints are considered impractical.
Is "unpractical" a real word?
Yes, "unpractical" is a real word, but it's less commonly used than "impractical."
Can "unpractical" and "impractical" be used interchangeably?
While they can be used interchangeably in casual conversation, "impractical" is preferred for formal contexts.
Is it incorrect to use "unpractical"?
It's not incorrect, but "impractical" is the more commonly accepted term.
Do dictionaries list "unpractical"?
Yes, dictionaries list "unpractical," but often with a note about "impractical" being the preferred term.
Can a person be described as "unpractical"?
Yes, but describing someone as "impractical" is more common and suggests their ideas or actions are not sensible or realistic.
Is "unpractical" used in British English?
It may appear in British English, but "impractical" is standard in both British and American English.
Can a design be both unpractical and impractical?
Yes, a design can be both if it lacks practical application and is unrealistic or inefficient due to external factors.
How do editors treat the use of "unpractical" in writing?
Editors may suggest replacing "unpractical" with "impractical" for clarity and modern usage.
Are there contexts where "unpractical" is preferred?
"Unpractical" might be preferred in historical or literary contexts where the term's usage is deliberate.
Does the prefix difference between "un-" and "im-" affect their meaning?
Not significantly in this case, as both prefixes negate the practicality, but "im-" is more commonly used for words starting with "p."
How does "impractical" relate to feasibility?
Something impractical may be technically feasible but is rendered impractical by real-world constraints.
Which term is older, "unpractical" or "impractical"?
"Unpractical" might be older, but "impractical" has become more standard over time.
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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.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
