ENGLISH
REFERENCE

realistic

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˌɹiəˈɫɪstɪk// UK //ɹiəlˈɪstɪk// re·al·is·tic General-service

adj. accepting things as they really are, rather than how you wish they were. It also describes something that is likely to happen or is possible to achieve.

adj. representing things in a way that is accurate and true to life; having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected.


SIMPLE

We need to set a realistic deadline for this project.

CONTEXTUAL

The director insisted on using practical effects to ensure the film's action sequences looked as realistic as possible.

COMPLEX

While the initial proposal was ambitious, the board requested a more realistic assessment of the potential risks and financial requirements before approving the expansion.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From realist + -ic.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'about' when referring to a person's perspective on a situation.

Pitfall

He is realistic of the situationHe is realistic about the situationWhen describing someone's awareness of reality, the adjective takes 'about' rather than 'of'.

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