Realistic

easyPositive tone

ree-uh-LIS-tik

adjective

Definition

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

Memory hook

REAL-istic: grounded in REALITY - feet planted firmly on solid ground.

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Word roots

resthing, matter(Latin)

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Examples

We need to set realistic goals for the project.
His realistic assessment helped the team plan effectively.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

We need to set ______ goals for the project.
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realistic

Synonyms

practicalpragmaticsensibledown-to-earth

Antonyms

Categories

View all Practicality words

GRE Tip

Realistic is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "practical" or "pragmatic" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "idealistic".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

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