How to say "realistic" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- na-adjectiveCovers 'realistic' in the sense of true to life: images, depictions, or descriptions that seem real. As a loanword, it is the natural choice for lifelike graphics, portrayals, and effects.
- 迫真はくしんno-adjectiveDescribes performances, portrayals, or depictions so vivid and convincing they seem real — 'true to life' in an intense, striking way. It is not the everyday word for realistic plans or thinking.
- 現実的げんじつてきna-adjectiveThe usual choice for 'realistic' about plans, expectations, or attitudes: sensible and pragmatic, facing facts and based on what is actually achievable rather than on wishful thinking.
- 実際的じっさいてきna-adjectiveOverlaps with 現実的 but leans toward 'practical': workable methods and hands-on usefulness. It can render 'realistic' in the pragmatic sense, though 現実的 is the safer choice there.
- 即物的そくぶつてきna-adjectiveSeldom the word you want for 'realistic': it really describes a matter-of-fact, utilitarian outlook concerned with tangible results and immediate benefit, often with a blunt, unsentimental feel.
Use 「リアル」 for lifelike, true-to-life depictions, 迫真 for strikingly vivid performances or portrayals, and 現実的 for sensible, pragmatic thinking; 実際的 stresses practicality, while 即物的 means matter-of-fact and utilitarian rather than simply realistic.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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