Realism

Noun

Definition: The attitude or practice of accepting a situation as it is and being prepared to deal with it accordingly.

Synonyms: Practicality, Pragmatism, Rationality

Antonyms: Idealism, Fantasy, Illusion

Examples:

Sarah's realism helped her navigate through the difficulties of starting her own business.
The realist painter captured every detail of the scene with meticulous accuracy.

Mnemonics:

Realism is a practical approach to situations, dealing with them as they truly are rather than how we may wish them to be.
Realism focuses on the truth and facts, avoiding illusions or fantasies.

Etymology:

Origin:

Realism originated from the French word "réalisme" in the early 19th century.

Historical Usage:

Realism emerged as a literary and artistic movement as a reaction against Romanticism. It aimed to depict everyday life and situations as accurately and truthfully as possible.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In the real world"

Explanation:

Refers to the practical or realistic aspects of life, as opposed to an idealized or hypothetical situation.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Believing that realism means cynicism or negativity.

Explanation:

Realism simply acknowledges and accepts reality as it is, without necessarily having a negative or cynical outlook. It is about facing challenges and making practical decisions based on facts.