Corresponding to reality and feasible in a sensible, practical way. An assessment that takes the given circumstances and possibilities into account.
example
Wir müssen uns realistische Ziele setzen, die wir auch erreichen können.
We need to set realistic goals that we can actually achieve.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'realistisch' (realistic) is derived from the noun 'die Realität' (reality). The ending '-istisch' is often used to express belonging to a way of thinking or a style.
EXAMPLE
Man muss die Realität akzeptieren, auch wenn sie schwierig ist.
You have to accept reality, even when it is difficult.
Use as an adverb
'Realistisch' (realistic/realistically) can also be used as an adverb to describe a verb. It then means 'in a realistic way.' A typical combination is 'etwas realistisch einschätzen' (to assess something realistically).
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen die Kosten für das Projekt realistisch einschätzen.
We need to realistically assess the costs for the project.
Typical collocations
In the sense of 'feasible' or 'sensible,' 'realistisch' (realistic) is often combined with nouns like 'Ziele' (goals), 'Plan' (plan), 'Einschätzung' (assessment), or 'Erwartung' (expectation). A common request is also: 'Bleib realistisch!' (Stay realistic!)
EXAMPLE
Sei realistisch, du kannst nicht alles an einem Tag schaffen.
Be realistic, you can't get everything done in one day.
Context: art
When it comes to art, literature, or film, 'realistisch' (realistic) means something like 'true to reality' or 'lifelike.' It describes a depiction that comes very close to reality.
EXAMPLE
Der Film zeigt eine sehr realistische Darstellung des Lebens im 19. Jahrhundert.
The film shows a very realistic depiction of life in the 19th century.
Compare with
confusable
realistisch vs real
real
'real' and 'realistisch' look similar and both have to do with reality, but they are used differently. 'real' says that something really exists and is not just imagined. 'realistisch' says that something fits reality and is sensible or feasible under the given circumstances. Learners often confuse the words because both are close to 'wirklich' (real / actual). A helpful rule is: something is real if it really exists. A plan or goal is realistic if it is likely achievable.
realistisch
Für die Prüfung ist ein Lernplan mit zwei Stunden pro Tag realistisch.
For the exam, a study plan with two hours a day is realistic.
real
Die Gefahr ist real, auch wenn man sie nicht sofort sieht.
The danger is real, even if you do not see it right away.