realistic with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "realistic with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing expectations, attitudes, or approaches that are practical and grounded in reality. Example: "We need to be realistic with our goals for this project to ensure we can achieve them within the given timeframe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But doctors, be realistic with your patients.

The New York Times

"I'm realistic with my ambitions.

The Guardian - Sport

I hope people are realistic with the level of expectation.

The Guardian - Sport

"We try to be more realistic with who we set him up with".

The New York Times

The birth scenes are realistic, with lots of coaching from Coates.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Harold Pinter's 1965 drama appears weirder, more frightening and more realistic with every year that passes.

The Guardian

Negotiations leading to peace can be realistic with an adversary who shares that goal.

The New York Times

We are realistic with our patients and maximize health-promoting factors like education, employment and relationships.

The New York Times

Both the Nyaya-Vaisheshika schools are realistic with regard to things, properties, relations, and universals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"But we've prioritised and been very realistic with where we sit as a team.

Independent

It couldn't have been more realistic, with friends and family life just like any normal fifteen year old.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting goals, use "realistic with" to temper enthusiasm with practical considerations, ensuring objectives are achievable and sustainable.

Common error

Avoid using "realistic with" as a mere disclaimer to excuse inaction. Ensure that your assessment is based on data and reasoned analysis, not simply a lack of ambition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "realistic with" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe the act of being grounded and practical in relation to something or someone. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "realistic with" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that advises practicality and grounded expectations. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals that it’s commonly found in News & Media, Wiki and Science, demonstrating its versatility. To enhance clarity, consider alternatives like "practical about" or "sensible regarding". Be sure to avoid using it as a simple disclaimer without supporting data to ensure you are being helpful and not just pessimistic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

realistic regarding

A direct synonym, offering a slightly more formal tone.

practical about

Focuses more on the practicality aspect, omitting the direct interaction.

sensible regarding

Emphasizes a reasoned and judicious approach, similar to being realistic.

pragmatic about

Highlights the practical and results-oriented nature of realism.

reasonable about

Implies a balanced and logical viewpoint.

grounded in reality about

More descriptive and emphasizes the connection to real-world conditions.

down-to-earth about

Emphasizes a practical and unpretentious approach.

sober about

Suggests a serious and thoughtful consideration of reality.

objective about

Focuses on unbiased and factual perspectives.

mindful of

Indicates an awareness of practical considerations and limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "realistic with" in a sentence?

You can use "realistic with" to advise someone to have practical expectations, like "Be "realistic with" your budget when planning a vacation."

What's the difference between "realistic with" and "realistic about"?

"Realistic with" often implies interaction or influence, as in "be "realistic with" your team's capabilities". "Realistic about" is broader, referring to understanding a situation.

Is "realistic to" a correct alternative to "realistic with"?

While grammatically possible in some contexts, "realistic to" is much less common than "realistic about" or ""realistic with"". It might sound awkward in many situations.

What are some alternatives to "realistic with"?

Depending on the context, consider using phrases like "practical about", "sensible regarding", or "pragmatic about" as alternatives to "realistic with".