praxí

Praxí, often rendered as praxis in English, is a term of Greek origin meaning action, deed, or practice. It derives from the Greek word πράξις (práxis), itself related to the verb πράττω (prátto), “to do.” In plain language, praxi refers to the exercise of action and the practical dimension of doing, as opposed to merely thinking or producing something.

In classical philosophy, praxis denotes action that is ends-oriented and morally conscious. Aristotle distinguishes praxis from poiesis (production or making) by focusing on deliberate, value-laden conduct rather than the creation of external objects. In this context, praxis often involves ethical choice and the realization of virtue through action.

In modern thought, praxis is a central concept in theories that unite theory and practice. In Marxist and critical theory, praxis refers to the continuous synthesis of reflection and action aimed at transforming social realities. The idea holds that knowledge becomes meaningful when tested through practice. Paolo Freire’s critical pedagogy further emphasizes praxis as reflection and action upon the world in order to bring about social change, not merely to interpret it.

Beyond philosophy and sociology, praxi appears in general usage to denote practical application or habitual practice. In scholarly contexts, the term signals a deliberate, reflective form of doing—where ideas are assessed through their real-world impact and revised accordingly.

Overall, praxi describes the dynamic interplay between theory and practice: informed action that is both purposeful and revisable, rooted in concrete circumstances and aimed at transformation.