be realistic

/biː rɪˈælɪstɪk/
to be practical and sensible

You need to be realistic about your goals.

You should set goals that are achievable and practical.


general

to accept or acknowledge facts or situations as they are, without unrealistic expectations

We have to be realistic about the budget constraints.

We must acknowledge and work within the limited budget we have.

Being realistic about your strengths and weaknesses is important for personal growth.

Recognizing your true abilities and limitations helps you improve.

This phrase is often used to encourage practical thinking and to avoid wishful or overly optimistic expectations.

Collocations

be realistic aboutto acknowledge or accept something as it truly isbe realistic withto be practical in dealing with someone or something

Related Phrases

keep it realphrase
to stay honest and practical
face realityphrase
to accept the true situation

Pro Tip

Use in advice

This phrase is often used when giving advice to encourage someone to think practically.

Gold Rule

Avoid overuse

While useful, overusing this phrase can make you seem negative or discouraging.

Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'be' with the adjective 'realistic,' which comes from the noun 'reality,' derived from the Latin 'realis,' meaning 'actual.'

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to encourage a practical and grounded approach to situations.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist or occur
verb
+
realistic
practical and sensible
adjective
English Dictionary