Synonyms for

Realist

Verb / ˈri:ʌlɪst / Another word for realist — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A realist is a person who sees things as they really are and is practical about what can be done.

Synonyms & similar words

pragmatist pessimist skeptic cynic rationalist materialist positivist empiricist naturalist objectivist rationalist sensible practical matter-of-fact down-to-earth hardheaded realistic pragmatic logical levelheaded

Synonyms by register

Formal

pragmatist empiricist materialist

Informal

down-to-earth person no-nonsense person practical person

Literary

sober-minded unvarnished observer

Antonyms

idealist dreamer optimist visionary romantic utopian

Common collocations

  • a true realist
  • a political realist
  • a scientific realist
  • a harsh realist
  • a pragmatic realist
  • a cynical realist

Word family

noun realist
adjective realistic

Usage note

A 'realist' accepts situations as they are, rather than as they might be wished. It often carries a slightly negative connotation of being uninspired or overly practical.

Example sentences

  1. The realist knew that it would be impossible to finish the puzzle in one day.
  2. As a realist, she knew that she needed to save money for a rainy day.
  3. The politician was a realist and promised only what he knew he could deliver.
  4. The artist was a realist and painted things exactly as they appeared in real life.
  5. The teacher was a realist and knew that not all of her students would get A's.

Quotes

  • A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. - Winston Churchill
  • The optimist proclaims that we live in the best of all possible worlds, and the pessimist fears this is true. - James Branch Cabell
  • The realist in you is never surprised or overwhelmed by anything – he expects the best but plans for the worst. - Brian Tracy

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