What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
verism
Example
The verism of the painting was impressive, with every detail captured perfectly. [verism: noun]
Example
The novel's veristic portrayal of poverty and hardship resonated with readers. [veristic: adjective]
realism
Example
The artist's realism captured the essence of the landscape perfectly. [realism: noun]
Example
The play's realistic portrayal of family dynamics struck a chord with the audience. [realistic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Realism is more commonly used than verism in everyday language and is a widely recognized term in the art world. Verism, on the other hand, is less common and may be unfamiliar to many people outside of art history circles.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between verism and realism?
Both verism and realism can be used in formal and informal contexts, but verism may be perceived as more specialized and academic due to its historical origins and narrower focus.