Escapist: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who often avoids real life by indulging in entertainment or fantasy. Can be neutral or negative depending on context.

• He's such an escapist, always watching movies to avoid his problems

Describes someone with big ideas or ambitions, often seen as having an optimistic or imaginative outlook. Typically positive.

• He's a dreamer, always thinking of how he can make the world a better place

Refers to a person who often dreams or thinks about pleasant things instead of paying attention to their surroundings. Generally neutral, sometimes with a positive or negative nuance.

• Sally is a daydreamer; she'll often stare out the window lost in her thoughts

Describes someone who often imagines things that are not real or creates elaborate fantasies. Can have a slightly negative connotation if used to imply lack of reality.

• As a fantasizer, Tom spends hours imagining he is a famous singer

Used when referring to someone who seeks distraction and relief from unpleasant realities, especially by engaging in entertainment or fantasy.

• John is an escapist; he spends hours reading science fiction novels to avoid thinking about his stressful job

Suitable for describing a genre of fiction that involves magical or supernatural elements that do not exist in the real world.

• The Lord of the Rings is a classic example of a high fantasy novel with intricate world-building and mythical creatures

Best used when talking about someone who has a creative and inventive mind, like an artist or a writer.

• Sarah's imaginative approach to storytelling always captures the attention of her audience

This term is appropriate when describing ideas, plans, or expectations that are not practical or possible in reality. It often has a negative connotation.

• Tom's plan to finish a week's worth of work in one day is completely unrealistic