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realism

This word is typically used as an uncountable noun, meaning you usually do not say "realisms." Depending on the context, it can describe a personal personality trait (being practical), a style of painting or writing, or a complex political theory. Always check if the speaker is talking about art or politics to understand the exact meaning.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is staring at her bank account in the university library.

Chloe Smith

I'm totally broke. A bit of realism is hitting me hard right now.

Eleanor Smith

JUST CHECK UNDER YOUR COUCH DEAR I ALWAYS FIND CHANGE THERE

💡

Chloe uses 'realism' to describe the sobering realization of her financial situation (Definition 1). She uses the slang 'totally broke' to emphasize her lack of money. Eleanor's response reflects her persona through all-caps typing and a simplistic, grandmotherly solution.

Meanings

noun

The quality or condition of being realistic; the practice of accepting a situation as it is and dealing with it accordingly.

"Her political realism prevented her from believing that the conflict would end overnight."

noun

An artistic movement or style that aims to represent subject matter truthfully, without artificiality and avoiding speculative elements.

"The exhibition focused on 19th-century social realism, depicting the harsh lives of the working class."

noun

In international relations, a theory that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual side of international politics, based on the premise that states act in their own self-interest.

"The scholar's approach to foreign policy was rooted in structural realism."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026•Report an Error