that was realistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that was realistic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, portrayal, or representation that accurately reflects reality or is believable. Example: "The movie's depiction of life in the 1800s was so well done; that was realistic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

We wanted a report that was realistic".

The New York Times

"G.M. did not make the bondholders an offer that was realistic," Mr. Penniman said.

The New York Times

Mr. Schwartsman of BBA said the banks' cautious support might have been the most that was realistic to expect.

The New York Times

"I couldn't recall it ever having been done -- especially in a way that was realistic and honest," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

"The aim for United this season was the top four, that was realistic," said Fletcher, who left Old Trafford for Albion in January.

The Guardian - Sport

Under Julius Caesar, this yielded in popularity to verse mime of Greek origin that was realistic, often obscene, and full of quotable apothegms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

They want something that's realistic".

The New York Times

It means demanding a solution that's realistic.

The Guardian - Business

It employs masks that are realistic enough to be slightly uncanny.

The New York Times

The issue is merely one of implementing policies that are realistic and responsible.

The Guardian - Opinion

These pledges are the best starting point for building agreements that are realistic and credible.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that was realistic" when you want to emphasize that a plan, expectation, or depiction aligns with reality and is achievable or believable. Ensure the context clearly supports the assessment of realism.

Common error

Avoid using "that was realistic" when expressing purely subjective opinions or preferences. Realism implies an objective assessment, so ensure your claim is grounded in factual evidence or widely accepted understanding, not just personal feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that was realistic" functions as a subjective assessment or evaluation of a past event, situation, or representation. It is used to express the speaker's judgment that something aligned with reality or was achievable given the circumstances, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that was realistic" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to assess a prior event, plan, or portrayal's adherence to reality. Ludwig AI indicates its prevalent use in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, make sure that the context supports a realistic assessment, avoiding purely subjective opinions. Consider using alternatives like "that was plausible" or "that was achievable" for nuanced expression. While commonly used, it's essential to ensure its proper application for clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that was grounded in reality

Expands the phrase to explicitly state the connection to the real world.

that was plausible

Replaces "realistic" with "plausible", suggesting something is believable or likely.

that was true to life

Highlights the authenticity and accurate reflection of real-world experiences.

that was achievable

Focuses on the attainability aspect, implying something could be successfully accomplished.

that was viable

Indicates something is capable of working successfully; emphasizes practicality.

that was feasible

Highlights the possibility of something being done easily or conveniently.

that was credible

Suggests something is convincing or believable; emphasizes trustworthiness.

that was down-to-earth

Implies a practical and straightforward approach, differing slightly in tone from "realistic".

that was within the realm of possibility

Emphasizes that something could conceivably happen or exist.

that was pragmatic

Focuses on a practical and sensible approach rather than just reflecting reality.

FAQs

How can I use "that was realistic" in a sentence?

You can use "that was realistic" to describe a portrayal, expectation, or goal that aligns with reality. For example, "The movie's depiction of poverty was raw; "that was realistic"".

What can I say instead of "that was realistic"?

You can use alternatives like "that was plausible", "that was achievable", or "that was true to life" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "that was realistic"?

It's appropriate when describing something that is grounded in reality, believable, or achievable. It's particularly useful when assessing plans, representations, or expectations.

Is "that's realistic" interchangeable with "that was realistic"?

While similar, "that's realistic" implies a present or future assessment, while ""that was realistic"" refers to something in the past. Choose the phrase that aligns with the timing of the situation.