Realistically: meaning, definitions and examples

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realistically

 

[ ˌrɪəˈlɪstɪkli ]

Adverb / Adjective
Context #1 | Adverb

in a realistic manner

In a way that accurately portrays or represents the true nature of something; without idealization or exaggeration.

Synonyms

accurately, practically, sensibly, truthfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
realistically

Use when discussing the practicality or feasibility of something, considering actual limitations and circumstances.

  • Realistically, we cannot finish this project by tomorrow.
  • Let's look at this problem realistically and not overestimate our abilities.
practically

Ideal for scenarios where the emphasis is on practicality, usefulness, or applicability in a real-world situation.

  • Practically speaking, it's better to buy a used car if you're on a budget.
  • Practically, this solution is more efficient and cost-effective.
sensibly

Use when referring to actions or decisions made with reason and good judgment.

  • She dressed sensibly for the cold weather.
  • He sensibly decided to save a portion of his salary every month.
truthfully

Best suited for situations requiring honesty and integrity.

  • Truthfully, I don't think I'm ready for this responsibility.
  • He answered the questions truthfully during the interview.
accurately

Best for situations where the focus is on precision and correctness.

  • The scientist measured the ingredients accurately to ensure valid results.
  • It's important to describe the events accurately in your report.

Examples of usage

  • He depicted the struggles of everyday life realistically in his paintings.
  • She knew she needed to face the situation realistically and make a practical plan.
Context #2 | Adjective

based on reality

Having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected.

Synonyms

feasible, practical, pragmatic, sensible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
realistically

Used when discussing or considering something in a way that is based on real facts and not on dreams or hopes.

  • Realistically, we cannot finish the project by tomorrow
  • We should set more achievable deadlines
practical

Used when referring to something that is related to actual use or practice, rather than ideas or theories.

  • We need a practical solution for managing waste in our city, like implementing a comprehensive recycling program
sensible

Used when referring to a decision or action that is wise and shows good judgment.

  • It's sensible to save a portion of your salary each month for emergencies
pragmatic

Used when approaching situations by dealing with things sensibly and realistically, based on practical considerations rather than theoretical ones.

  • Her pragmatic approach to solving the crisis helped the company recover quickly
feasible

Used when talking about something that is possible and able to be done or achieved.

  • Building a new bridge within a year is feasible if we have enough funding and resources

Examples of usage

  • It's important to have a realistically achievable goal to work towards.
  • She had a realistically optimistic view of the situation.

Translations

Translations of the word "realistically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 realisticamente

🇮🇳 यथार्थवादी रूप से

🇩🇪 realistisch

🇮🇩 secara realistis

🇺🇦 реалістично

🇵🇱 realistycznie

🇯🇵 現実的に (げんじつてきに)

🇫🇷 réalistiquement

🇪🇸 realísticamente

🇹🇷 gerçekçi bir şekilde

🇰🇷 현실적으로 (현실적인)

🇸🇦 بواقعية

🇨🇿 realisticky

🇸🇰 realisticky

🇨🇳 现实地 (xiànshí de)

🇸🇮 realistično

🇮🇸 raunsætt

🇰🇿 шынайы түрде

🇬🇪 რეალისტურად

🇦🇿 realist şəkildə

🇲🇽 realísticamente

Etymology

The word 'realistically' is derived from the adjective 'realistic', which comes from the late Latin word 'realis' meaning 'of, relating to things'. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb, indicating 'in a realistic manner'. The term has been in use since the late 18th century, evolving to encompass a practical and sensible approach to situations.

See also: real, realism, realistic, reality, realize, really, realtor, surreal, unreal, unrealised, unrealistic, unrealistically, unrealizable, unrealized, unrealness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,574, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.