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realistic
/rɪˈælɪstɪk/
practical and sensible
Her plan to save money was very realistic.
Her plan was practical and achievable.
general
Based on what is actually possible or likely; practical and sensible.
The movie's portrayal of war was realistic and intense.
The movie accurately depicted the harsh realities of war.
We need to set realistic goals for the project.
We should aim for achievable and sensible objectives.
Often used to describe plans, expectations, or depictions that are grounded in reality.
Collocations
realistic expectationa practical and achievable goalrealistic portrayalan accurate and lifelike depictionrealistic assessmenta practical evaluation of a situation
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'realistic' to describe something that is practical and achievable, not overly optimistic or idealistic.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'réaliste' (15th century), from Latin 'realis' (real) + '-istic' (suffix denoting a characteristic).
Usage Notes
Often used to describe plans, expectations, or depictions that are grounded in reality. Can also describe art or media that accurately represents real life.
Word Breakdown
real
actual, existing
root-istic
relating to or characterized by
suffixEnglish Dictionary