What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
practical
Example
The new car model has practical features that make it ideal for families. [practical: adjective]
Example
We need to come up with a practical plan to solve this problem. [practical: adjective]
Example
She's a practical person who always considers the practicality of her decisions. [practical: noun]
realistic
Example
We need to have a realistic view of our finances before making any big purchases. [realistic: adjective]
Example
Her goal of becoming a doctor is realistic given her academic achievements. [realistic: adjective]
Example
He's a realistic person who doesn't believe in get-rich-quick schemes. [realistic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Practical is more commonly used than realistic in everyday language. Practical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while realistic is more specific and mainly used in the context of goals and expectations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between practical and realistic?
Both practical and realistic can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, realistic may be perceived as more formal due to its association with goal-setting and planning.
