What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overidealized
Example
The movie presented an overidealized version of love and relationships. [overidealized: adjective]
Example
She had an overidealized view of her dream job, thinking it would be perfect in every way. [overidealized: past participle]
unrealistic
Example
It's unrealistic to expect to become a millionaire overnight. [unrealistic: adjective]
Example
His plan to climb Mount Everest without any training was unrealistic and dangerous. [unrealistic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unrealistic is more commonly used than overidealized in everyday language. Unrealistic is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overidealized is less common and often used in the context of art, media, or literature.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between overidealized and unrealistic?
Both overidealized and unrealistic are typically associated with an informal tone, but unrealistic can be used in formal contexts as well.