A factual and sober assessment of a situation that is oriented toward the facts and takes what is feasible into account.
example
Bei der Planung des Projekts ist eine gute Portion Realismus gefragt.
When planning the project, a good dose of realism is needed.
Usage tips
Word family
'Realismus' (realism) belongs to the word family of 'real' (real) and 'Realität' (reality). The ending '-ismus' often refers to a mindset, a doctrine, or an artistic movement.
EXAMPLE
Ein realistischer Plan ist besser als eine schöne Illusion.
A realistic plan is better than a beautiful illusion.
Context clue
The exact meaning becomes clear from the context. In everyday or business situations, it refers to a factual attitude. In discussions about art or literature, it means a stylistic period. In an academic context, it can also refer to a philosophical position.
EXAMPLE
Sein Realismus half ihm, die finanzielle Krise zu meistern.
His realism helped him overcome the financial crisis.
Typical collocations
When it is about a factual assessment, 'Realismus' (realism) is often used in phrases such as 'eine Portion Realismus brauchen' (to need a dose of realism), 'Realismus walten lassen' (to exercise realism), or 'den Realismus nicht verlieren' (not to lose one's realism).
EXAMPLE
Bei aller Euphorie sollten wir den Realismus nicht verlieren.
Despite all the euphoria, we should not lose our realism.
Use in specialist contexts
As a term in art or literary studies, 'Realismus' (Realism) is often connected with a period or a region. Typical formulations are 'der französische Realismus' (French Realism) or 'der Realismus des 19. Jahrhunderts' (19th-century Realism).
EXAMPLE
Dieses Werk ist ein typisches Beispiel für den deutschen Realismus.
This work is a typical example of German Realism.
Compare with
antonym
Realismus vs Fantasy
fantasy
'die Fantasy' and 'der Realismus' can both describe genres or styles in stories, films, and art. The important contrast lies in the kind of world they show. In fantasy, there is often magic, supernatural beings, or invented worlds. Realism aims to show the world as close to reality as possible, with ordinary people, real problems, and believable situations. If a story has dragons and magic, 'Fantasy' fits. If it shows everyday life without magic in a precise and factual way, 'Realismus' fits.
Realismus
Der Roman gehört zum Realismus, weil er das Leben der Arbeiter sehr genau beschreibt.
The novel belongs to Realism because it describes the lives of workers very precisely.
Fantasy
Im Urlaub liest Lisa gern Fantasy mit Zauberern und fremden Königreichen.
On vacation, Lisa likes reading fantasy with wizards and foreign kingdoms.