Ideal Meaning
Ideal Definition & Usage
Describes something that is considered perfect or the best possible, without any flaws.
Examples
- "The ideal vacation for me is one where I can relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset."
- "In an ideal world, everyone would have access to clean water."
- "She is the ideal candidate for the job because of her extensive experience."
- "This is the ideal time to plant the seeds for next season's garden."
- "The school aims to create an ideal environment for learning."
A perfect standard or model that is often used as a goal or aspiration.
Examples
- "His ideal is to live a life full of adventure and exploration."
- "The idea of a utopian society is often referred to as the ideal of perfect equality."
- "They strive to reach the ideal of customer service excellence."
- "Her ideal of beauty was shaped by the images she saw in the media."
- "The team worked together to achieve their ideal of victory in the championship."
Cultural Context
The word 'ideal' has roots in Ancient Greek philosophy, where it was used to describe perfect forms or concepts that exist beyond the physical world. Over time, the word has evolved to mean a standard of perfection in various fields such as beauty, relationships, and ethics. In modern culture, 'ideal' is often associated with utopian visions of society, personal goals, and perfection in art or design.
The Search for the Ideal
Story
The Search for the Ideal
Lucy stood at the top of the mountain, feeling the cool breeze against her face. She had climbed for hours, and now, as the sun dipped below the horizon, she could see the vast valley stretched out below her. It was, in every sense, an ideal view—perfectly symmetrical, peaceful, and untouched by time. For Lucy, this was the ideal of escape, away from the bustling city and the pressures of everyday life. But even here, on this mountain, she knew that what she was searching for—the true ideal—was not something easily found. In the town below, people went about their daily routines, some working hard, others relaxing. But no one seemed to embody the true meaning of 'ideal.' It wasn’t a flawless existence or perfect happiness that Lucy sought—it was the freedom to pursue whatever dream she chose. That, to her, was the ideal. Lucy had spent years chasing various ideals: the perfect job, the ideal partner, the dream home. But none of these gave her the sense of fulfillment she expected. She realized that the ideal wasn’t an external goal; it was a feeling, a state of mind. That night, as Lucy sat by the fire, she thought about her journey. She smiled, realizing that perhaps the true ideal was not about achieving perfection. It was about the journey itself, the learning, and the growth that came with it. The ideal wasn’t a destination—it was the process of becoming. When Lucy returned to the town, she began to view everything with new eyes. The imperfections of life, the struggles, and the successes—they were all part of the ideal she had been searching for. Her journey was her ideal, and it was enough.
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