Word
unrealistic
Phoneticsun·re·al·is·tic
US/ənˌɹiˈɫɪstɪk/
UK/ʌnɹiəlˈɪstɪk/
Definition
adj. not based on what is real or possible. You use this when a plan or idea is too difficult to achieve.
adj. not in accordance with reality or practical possibility; lacking a basis in fact or feasible conditions.
Examples
“His plan to finish the book in one day is unrealistic.”
“The manager called the sales target unrealistic because the market had shrunk.”
“Critics argued that the proposal was unrealistic, ignoring the severe budget constraints and logistical hurdles involved.”
Examples
simple
“His plan to finish the book in one day is unrealistic.”
contextual
“The manager called the sales target unrealistic because the market had shrunk.”
complex
“Critics argued that the proposal was unrealistic, ignoring the severe budget constraints and logistical hurdles involved.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “unrealistic” in context.
Adjective
01. unrealistic expectation
“Having an unrealistic expectation about how much you can learn in one day will lead to disappointment.”
adj + noun
Etymology
From un- + realistic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/unrealistic