Translation guide
The English word "realistic" covers several related ideas: being practical and sensible, being true to life, and being achievable. This guide breaks down these meanings and gives natural Japanese equivalents for each.
Describing a person, plan, or expectation that is based on what is actually possible, not on hopes or ideals.
a realistic plan · be realistic about your chances · a realistic assessment
The most common and direct translation for "realistic" in the sense of being practical and grounded in reality. Used for people, ideas, plans, etc.
He always has a realistic way of thinking.
You should set more realistic goals.
Emphasizes practicality and feasibility. Often used for approaches, methods, or solutions.
Let's think of a realistic solution.
Literally "to look at reality," meaning to be realistic or face facts. Often used as advice.
It's about time you got realistic.
Describing a representation that closely resembles real life, such as in movies, games, paintings, or descriptions.
a realistic painting · the special effects were very realistic · a realistic simulation
A loanword from English, very common in casual and media contexts. Often used for graphics, special effects, or vivid depictions.
The graphics in this game are very realistic.
Specifically refers to realism in art and literature, emphasizing faithful depiction of reality. More formal/literary than リアル.
Means "lifelike" or "vivid," often used for performances or descriptions that feel real. Commonly in compounds like 迫真の演技 (realistic acting).
Describing something that can realistically be accomplished or reached.
a realistic deadline · is that a realistic expectation? · a realistic target
Same word as in the first meaning, but used for goals and expectations. Context makes the meaning clear.
That plan is not realistic.
Means "not unreasonable" or "within reason." Often used for schedules, plans, or demands that are realistic and not overly ambitious.
現実的 is used for abstract concepts like ideas, plans, and people's attitudes. リアル is used for sensory experiences, especially visual or auditory realism in media. Saying 彼はリアルだ would mean "he is real (not fake)" rather than "he is realistic."
His way of thinking is realistic.
The CG in this movie is realistic.
Using リアル to describe a person's personality or mindset will be interpreted as "real" (as opposed to fake) or "genuine," not "practical." Stick to 現実的 for that meaning.
The battle scene in the movie was so realistic it was scary.
彼の絵はとても写実的だ。
His paintings are very realistic.
彼の迫真の演技に観客は涙した。
The audience cried at his realistic acting.
Literally "realization possible," meaning feasible or achievable. More formal and often used in business or technical contexts.
Please set realistic (achievable) goals.
Let's make a realistic (reasonable) plan.