Meaning & Definition of word "Realism"
Realism
/ˈrɪəˌlɪz(ə)m/
noun:
- 1. a style of art or literature that aims to represent familiar things as they are.
- Example: The novel was praised for its realism, capturing the struggles of everyday life.
- 2. the attitude or practice of accepting a situation as it is and being prepared to deal with it accordingly.
- Example: His realism about the job market helped him make practical decisions about his career.
- 3. a theory in philosophy that universals exist independently of their instances.
- Example: In discussions of philosophy, realism contrasts with idealism.
- 4. the quality of representing a person or thing in a way that is accurate and true to life.
- Example: The director focused on realism in her films, aiming for a documentary-like feel.
Etymology
●From French réalisme, from réel meaning 'real'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
magical realism:
A genre that incorporates fantastical elements into otherwise realistic settings.
realism theory:
A theory in philosophy or the arts that advocates for representation of reality.
social realism:
An art movement that aims to represent the everyday conditions of the working class.
Related Words
idealism:
The practice of pursuing or envisioning ideal outcomes, often in contrast to realism.
naturalism:
A style of representation that emphasizes the accurate depiction of life and nature.
verisimilitude:
The appearance of being true or real, which is often a goal of realism in literature.
Slang Meanings of realism
Meaning: Keeping it real
● Example Sentence: He's always keeping it real; he never sugarcoats the truth.
Meaning: No filter
● Example Sentence: Her social media is all about no filter realism; she shows life as it is.