is it realistic

USAGE SUMMARY

'is it realistic' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in a sentence when you are asking if something is achievable or within the bounds of probability. For example: "We want to save enough money for our vacation, but is it realistic given the amount of time we have left?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But is it realistic?

The Economist

So is it realistic to talk of tearing them down?

The New York Times - Arts

The Mars One programme is daring but is it realistic?

The Guardian

But is it realistic to fit enough into a daily diet to make a difference?

Harvard University

No nation on earth would accept that, nor is it realistic to expect it to.

The New York Times

In hindsight that seems sensible, but is it realistic going forward?

The Economist

But is it realistic to expect north Africa to engage with the south?

The Guardian - Opinion

But is it realistic for a charity sector already strapped for time and cash?

The Guardian

And, is it realistic to expect companies to deploy tomorrow's automated systems any better than they deploy today's?

MIT Technology Review

But in a world of 24-hour communication, is it realistic – or indeed advisable – to go completely off the radar?

The Guardian

(Especially if Gayle fires)But is it realistic to expect them to get to the semis at least?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is it realistic" when discussing future projections or goals to ensure they are grounded in current capabilities and resources.

Common error

Avoid using "is it realistic" solely to dismiss ideas. Instead, use it as a starting point for a constructive discussion about necessary adjustments and resource allocation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it realistic" functions as an interrogative expression, primarily used to question the feasibility or achievability of a plan, goal, or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in a variety of contexts. Its core function is to prompt a critical assessment of assumptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is it realistic" is a common and grammatically sound way to question the achievability or feasibility of something. Ludwig's examples show that it appears across a wide range of contexts, from news and media to academic discussions, highlighting its versatility. While commonly used, it's important to use it constructively, not just to dismiss ideas, but to encourage careful assessment and realistic goal-setting. Alternatives like "is it feasible" or "is it achievable" can be used depending on the specific context. Its main function is to prompt critical thinking, making it a valuable tool in planning and decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it achievable

Focuses on the possibility of reaching a specific goal or outcome.

is it feasible

Emphasizes the practicality and logistical possibility of something.

is it viable

Highlights the capacity to survive or succeed, especially in a competitive environment.

is it practical

Stresses the usefulness and suitability of something for a particular purpose.

is it plausible

Indicates the likelihood or believability of something.

is it sensible

Focuses on the reasonableness and good judgment of an action or idea.

is it workable

Highlights the potential for something to function effectively.

is it attainable

Focuses directly on whether a goal can be reached.

is it reasonable to expect

Considers whether an expectation is fair or justified.

can it be done

A more direct and simple way of asking about the possibility of achieving something.

FAQs

How can I use "is it realistic" in a sentence?

You can use "is it realistic" to question the feasibility of a plan or expectation. For example, "Given our current budget, "is it realistic" to expect a significant increase in profits this quarter?"

What are some alternatives to using "is it realistic"?

Alternatives include "is it feasible", "is it achievable", or "is it practical" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "is it realistic" and "is it possible"?

"Is it possible" questions whether something can happen at all, while "is it realistic" considers whether it is likely to happen given current circumstances and resources. "Is it possible" refers to something that may occur or exist; "is it realistic" focuses on being down-to-earth.

When is it appropriate to use "is it realistic" in professional communication?

It's appropriate to use "is it realistic" during project planning, goal setting, or when evaluating proposals to ensure that expectations align with available resources and potential challenges. It also helps assess if assumptions about future benefits are sound.