Unrealistic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing expectations, goals, or plans that are not practical or achievable in the real world.

• Expecting to become an expert in foreign languages in just one week is unrealistic

Used when describing ideas, methods, or objects that are not useful or realistic in real-life situations.

• Wearing high heels on a hiking trip is impractical

Used when referring to tasks or plans that cannot be carried out or are impossible to achieve.

• Building a bridge across the entire ocean is unfeasible with current technology

Used when talking about imaginative thoughts, stories, or worlds that are often magical or otherworldly.

• Her favorite books are those that transport her to a world of fantasy, full of dragons and wizards

Use when something is not practical or likely to happen.

• The plan to finish the project in one day is unrealistic
• It's unrealistic to expect a five-year-old to solve that math problem

Use when talking about something that exists only in the mind or fantasy, not in reality.

• Children often have imaginary friends
• The dragon in the storybook is imaginary

Use when describing something that is so extraordinary that it’s hard to believe it is true.

• His story about surviving a shark attack was unbelievable
• The magician's trick was unbelievable!

Use when describing something extremely good, impressive, or wonderful.

• The movie we watched last night was fantastic! She gave a fantastic performance at the concert