Translation guide
Describes something that is not based on reality, is impractical, or is unlikely to happen. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether you mean 'not realistic' (非現実的), 'impossible' (無理), 'impractical' (現実的でない), or 'fantastical' (非現実的な).
Describing ideas, stories, or depictions that are imaginary or not grounded in real life.
The most direct translation for 'unrealistic' in the sense of being detached from reality. Often used for stories, expectations, or plans.
その映画のストーリーは非現実的だ。
The movie's story is unrealistic.
Literally 'detached from reality'. Used for things that are too idealistic or out of touch with the real world.
彼の計画は現実離れしている。
His plan is unrealistic.
Attributive form of 非現実的, used before nouns.
非現実的な期待を持ってはいけない。
You shouldn't have unrealistic expectations.
Describing goals, demands, or deadlines that cannot be met.
Means 'impossible' or 'unreasonable'. Commonly used for unrealistic demands or schedules.
その締め切りは無理だ。
That deadline is unrealistic.
Emphasizes that something is completely impossible or unrealistic.
それは到底無理な要求だ。
That's an utterly unrealistic demand.
Describing plans or ideas that are not practical or workable in reality.
Literally 'not realistic/practical'. Used for plans or suggestions that don't consider real-world constraints.
その提案は現実的でない。
That proposal is unrealistic.
Also used for impracticality, though slightly more formal.
そのアイデアは非現実的だ。
That idea is unrealistic.
Describing expectations or hopes that are too good to be true.
Means 'naive' or 'overly optimistic'. Often used for unrealistic expectations or plans.
そんな甘い考えでは成功しない。
You won't succeed with such unrealistic thinking.
Means 'too optimistic', implying unrealistic hopefulness.
彼の予測は楽観的すぎる。
His forecast is unrealistically optimistic.
非現実的 (higenjitsuteki) is a stronger, more formal word meaning 'unrealistic' in the sense of being fantastical or detached from reality. 現実的でない (genjitsuteki de nai) is a softer, more common phrase meaning 'not practical' or 'not realistic'. Use 非現実的 for stories or ideas, and 現実的でない for plans or suggestions.
Directly translating 'unrealistic' as 非現実的 may sound too stiff in casual conversation. For everyday situations, consider using 無理 (muri) for impossible things, 甘い (amai) for naive expectations, or 現実的でない (genjitsuteki de nai) for impractical ideas.