At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe things. While '현실적이다' might seem a bit advanced because it has many syllables, you can understand it as a way to say something is 'real' or 'makes sense'. Imagine you are talking about a toy or a cartoon. If it looks like a real dog, you might hear someone say it is '현실적'. At this stage, just remember that '현실' means 'reality'. You might use it in very simple sentences like '그것은 현실적이에요' (That is realistic) when talking about a simple plan like going to the park. Don't worry about the complex grammar yet; just focus on the idea of 'real' vs 'not real'. You will mostly see it in the form '현실적인' followed by a simple noun like '꿈' (dream) or '계획' (plan).
At the A2 level, you can start using '현실적이다' to discuss your daily life and plans. This is a very useful word when you are talking with friends about your future or your hobbies. For example, if you want to travel to ten countries in one week, your Korean friend might say, '그건 현실적이지 않아' (That's not realistic). You can also use the adverb '현실적으로' (realistically) to start a sentence when you want to be honest about a situation. For example, '현실적으로, 저는 지금 돈이 없어요' (Realistically, I don't have money right now). This level is where you begin to differentiate between what you want to do (이상) and what you can actually do (현실). Practice using the modifier '현실적인' with nouns like '목표' (goal) to describe your Korean study habits.
By the B1 level, you should be able to use '현실적이다' in more complex social situations, such as at work or in deeper discussions about society. You can use it to give advice or express your opinion on a variety of topics. You will notice that in Korean culture, being 'realistic' is often contrasted with being 'idealistic'. You can start using the word to describe people's personalities: '그는 매우 현실적인 사람이에요' (He is a very realistic person). This implies he is practical and doesn't get carried away by emotions. You should also be comfortable with the negative form '비현실적이다' (unrealistic) and use it to describe movies, stories, or even someone's high expectations. At this stage, you are moving beyond simple 'real/not real' and into the territory of 'practicality' and 'feasibility'.
At the B2 level, you can use '현실적이다' to participate in debates and academic or professional discussions. You will encounter this word frequently in news articles about the economy, politics, and social issues. For instance, you might read about '현실적인 대책' (realistic measures) to solve the housing crisis. You should understand the nuance of how '현실적' can sometimes be used as a subtle criticism—implying that a person is too focused on the present and lacks vision. You can also use it to discuss literature and film, analyzing whether a character's actions are '현실적' within the context of the story. Your ability to use related terms like '실질적' (substantial) and '사실적' (factual) alongside '현실적' will show your advanced understanding of the language.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the philosophical and cultural implications of '현실적이다'. You can discuss the concept of 'Realism' (현실주의) in art and literature, and how it differs from 'Naturalism' or 'Idealism'. You can use the word to navigate delicate professional negotiations, using '현실적으로' to ground the conversation without sounding negative. You understand that in Korea, the call to be 'realistic' can be a point of social friction, especially between generations. You can use the word in nuanced ways, such as describing a '현실적인 타협' (realistic compromise) that acknowledges the limitations of all parties involved. Your vocabulary should also include more formal synonyms like '실현 가능하다' (realizable/feasible) to vary your speech in formal presentations.
At the C2 level, you use '현실적이다' with the precision of a native speaker. you can identify the subtle shifts in meaning depending on the speaker's tone—whether it's a cold, hard truth, a comforting pragmatic advice, or a cynical dismissal of hope. You can write sophisticated essays on the '현실적인 한계' (realistic limits) of modern technology or the '현실적인 인식' (realistic perception) of history. You are comfortable using the word in its most abstract forms, perhaps discussing the '현실적인 구성' (realistic construction) of a complex narrative or a legal framework. Your mastery allows you to use '현실적' to explore the boundary between the objective world and subjective experience, making you an eloquent and persuasive communicator in any high-level Korean context.

현실적이다 en 30 secondes

  • Means being realistic or practical in thoughts and actions.
  • Derived from 현실 (reality) + 적 (suffix) + 이다 (to be).
  • Used for plans, goals, and describing down-to-earth people.
  • Commonly contrasted with 이상적이다 (idealistic) or 비현실적이다 (unrealistic).

The Korean adjective 현실적이다 (hyeonsiljeog-ida) is a cornerstone of daily conversation, professional planning, and personal philosophy. At its core, it combines the noun 현실 (reality) with the suffix -적 (characteristic of) and the copula -이다 (to be). When you describe something as 현실적이다, you are asserting that it aligns with the actual state of the world rather than dreams, fantasies, or unattainable ideals. In Korean culture, which often balances rapid modernization with deep-seated pragmatic values, being 'realistic' is frequently viewed as a virtue, though sometimes it carries a bittersweet connotation of giving up on one's loftier dreams for the sake of survival or stability.

Literal Meaning
Being based on reality; having the qualities of the actual world.
Pragmatic Usage
Used when discussing budgets, career paths, and feasibility of plans where 'common sense' and 'current resources' are the priority.

그의 제안은 매우 현실적이다. (His proposal is very realistic.)

You will encounter this word in a variety of contexts. In a business meeting, a manager might dismiss an overly ambitious marketing strategy by saying it isn't 'realistic' enough, implying it lacks the budget or manpower to succeed. In a romantic drama (K-Drama), a character might choose a stable partner over a passionate but unstable love interest, describing the choice as a 'realistic' decision. This highlights the word's dual nature: it is both a tool for efficiency and a marker of maturity. It often contrasts with 이상적이다 (to be idealistic) or 몽상적이다 (to be dreamy/fanciful).

우리는 좀 더 현실적인 해결책을 찾아야 합니다. (We need to find a more realistic solution.)

Social Nuance
In Korea, the 'Hell Joseon' discourse often involves young people being told to be 'realistic' about their job prospects in a tough economy.

Furthermore, in the world of art and media, 현실적이다 describes depictions that feel true to life. If a movie portrays the struggles of a working-class family without sugarcoating their problems, audiences will praise it for being realistic. This applies to acting as well; a performance that avoids melodrama and feels like a real person's reaction is described with this term. It is a versatile bridge between the abstract concept of 'truth' and the practical application of 'utility'.

이 영화의 결말은 참 현실적이다. (The ending of this movie is truly realistic.)

꿈을 꾸는 것도 좋지만, 현실적인 문제도 고려해야 해. (Dreaming is good, but you must also consider realistic issues.)

Economic Context
Often used when discussing 'realistic prices' (현실적인 가격) or 'realistic wages' (현실적인 임금).

In summary, 현실적이다 is the linguistic anchor that pulls discussions back to the ground. Whether you are criticizing a friend's wild travel plans or praising a documentary for its honesty, this word provides the necessary weight of 'what actually is'. It encourages a pragmatic approach to life's challenges while acknowledging the constraints of our environment.

Using 현실적이다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical structure as a descriptive adjective ending in -이다. Unlike English where 'realistic' is a simple adjective, in Korean, the root 현실적 is often followed by markers that change its function in the sentence. You can use it to modify nouns, describe a state, or function as an adverb when modified to 현실적으로.

Modifying Nouns
Use the form 현실적인 before a noun. For example: 현실적인 계획 (a realistic plan), 현실적인 목표 (a realistic goal).

현실적인 대안을 제시해 주세요. (Please suggest a realistic alternative.)

When you want to say something 'is' realistic at the end of a sentence, you conjugate -이다 based on the politeness level. In formal settings, use 현실적입니다. In standard polite conversation, use 현실적이에요. In casual speech among friends, use 현실적이야. Note that because it ends in a vowel-less sound (the 'k' sound in 'jeok'), the -이에요 ending is standard.

그의 생각은 너무 현실적이라서 가끔은 차갑게 느껴져요. (Because his thoughts are so realistic, he sometimes feels cold.)

Adverbial Form
Change it to 현실적으로 to mean 'realistically'. This is frequently used at the start of sentences to ground the conversation: 현실적으로 말하면... (Realistically speaking...)

Another important usage is in comparisons. You might compare two ideas and say one is 더 현실적이다 (more realistic). This is common when choosing between different options in business or personal life. If you want to emphasize that something is 'not' realistic, you use the negation 현실적이지 않다 or the more colloquial 비현실적이다 (to be unrealistic).

현실적으로 그 시간 안에 일을 끝내는 것은 불가능해요. (Realistically, it is impossible to finish the work in that time.)

상황이 바뀌었으니 현실적인 판단이 필요합니다. (Since the situation has changed, a realistic judgment is needed.)

Common Contexts
1. Budgeting: 현실적인 예산. 2. Career: 현실적인 조언. 3. Relationships: 현실적인 연애.

Finally, remember that 현실적이다 is an adjective of quality. It describes the nature of a plan, a person, or a situation. By mastering its various forms—현실적인, 현실적으로, 현실적이지 않은—you can navigate complex Korean social interactions where balancing 'what we want' with 'what we can actually do' is a constant theme.

The word 현실적이다 is ubiquitous in modern Korean life, echoing through office corridors, coffee shop conversations, and news broadcasts. Its prevalence stems from the societal emphasis on pragmatism and the high-pressure nature of Korean society, where being unrealistic is often seen as a luxury one cannot afford.

In the Office
You will hear this constantly during project planning. '현실적인 일정' (a realistic schedule) is a phrase managers use to ensure projects don't fail due to over-ambition.

팀장님, 그 마감 기한은 현실적이지 않습니다. (Team leader, that deadline is not realistic.)

In Korean media, particularly news and talk shows, 현실적이다 is used to critique government policies or economic forecasts. Analysts might argue that a new law doesn't reflect the '현실적인 고충' (realistic hardships) of small business owners. Here, the word takes on a tone of empathy and groundedness, suggesting that those in power are out of touch with the 'real world'.

요즘 청년들에게 결혼은 비현실적인 꿈일 수 있어요. (For today's youth, marriage can be an unrealistic dream.)

In the realm of K-Dramas and movies, 'realistic' is a high compliment for writing. If a drama depicts a breakup as messy, mundane, and painful rather than cinematic and dramatic, viewers will comment: '와, 진짜 현실적이다' (Wow, that's really realistic). This reflects a growing trend in Korean entertainment toward 'slice-of-life' stories that mirror the actual experiences of the audience.

Everyday Socializing
Friends often use it when giving advice. '현실적으로 생각해 봐' (Think about it realistically) is a common way to tell a friend they are being too optimistic or naive.

Finally, you'll hear it in the context of self-improvement and education. Students are encouraged to set '현실적인 목표' (realistic goals) for their exams. In this sense, the word is used as a motivational tool to prevent burnout by keeping expectations manageable. Whether it's about money, love, or work, 현실적이다 is the word Koreans use to navigate the space between what they want and what they can have.

꿈을 쫓는 것도 좋지만 현실적인 대책도 세워야지. (Pursuing dreams is good, but you should also make realistic plans.)

While 현실적이다 is a common word, English speakers often struggle with its specific nuances and grammatical constraints in Korean. One of the most frequent errors is confusing it with other words that mean 'real' or 'actual', such as 실제 (silje) or 사실 (sasil).

Confusing with '실제'
'실제' refers to the 'actual' or 'factual' existence of something. '현실적' refers to the 'realistic' nature or feasibility. You wouldn't say '현실적인 이름' for 'actual name'; you use '실제 이름'.

❌ 이 계획은 실제적이다. (This sounds like 'this plan exists'.)
✅ 이 계획은 현실적이다. (This plan is feasible/realistic.)

Another mistake involves the overuse of 현실적이다 when describing physical objects. In English, we might say a high-definition TV looks 'realistic'. In Korean, while you *can* use 현실적이다, it is much more common to use 사실적이다 (to be factual/true-to-life) or 생생하다 (to be vivid/lifelike) for visual depictions.

❌ 그는 현실적 사람이다.
✅ 그는 현실적인 사람이다.

Learners also often misplace the adverbial form 현실적으로. In English, 'realistically' can appear at the end of a sentence ('We can't do that, realistically'). In Korean, 현실적으로 almost always appears before the verb it modifies or at the very beginning of the clause for emphasis.

Misusing for 'Sincere'
Sometimes learners use 'realistic' to mean 'sincere' or 'honest'. Use 솔직하다 or 진실하다 instead. 현실적 is about logic and practicality, not emotion.

Finally, be careful with the negative form. While 현실적이지 않다 is correct, using the prefix 비- (un/non-) to make 비현실적이다 is very common and sounds more natural in many contexts. If you only use the long negation, you might sound slightly formal or repetitive.

그 이야기는 너무 비현실적이야. (That story is too unrealistic.)

To truly master 현실적이다, you must understand how it relates to its synonyms and near-synonyms. Choosing the right word can change the tone of your sentence from clinical to artistic to critical.

사실적이다 (Sasiljeog-ida) vs. 현실적이다
사실적이다 means 'factual' or 'true to life'. It is used for art, descriptions, or historical accounts. 현실적이다 is about practicality and feasibility in the real world.

이 그림은 매우 사실적이다. (This painting is very realistic/true-to-life.)

Another close relative is 실질적이다 (Siljiljeog-ida). While 현실적 focuses on the 'reality' of a situation, 실질적 focuses on the 'substance' or 'actual effect'. For example, 실질적인 도움 means 'substantial help' or 'practical help' that actually changes something.

실용적이다 (Silyongjeog-ida)
This means 'practical' or 'utilitarian'. Use this for tools, clothes, or furniture. A 'realistic' chair doesn't make sense; a 'practical' chair does.

이 가방은 디자인보다 실용적이다. (This bag is more practical than stylish.)

If you want to describe a person who is 'realistic' in a slightly negative way—meaning they only care about money or their own gain—you might use 타산적이다 (Tasanjeog-ida), which means 'calculating'. 현실적 is neutral, but 타산적 implies selfishness.

그것은 이상적이지만 현실적이지는 않아요. (That is idealistic, but not realistic.)

Summary of Alternatives
1. 사실적이다: For art/descriptions.
2. 실질적이다: For tangible results/substance.
3. 실용적이다: For utility/usefulness.
4. 타산적이다: For being calculating/selfish.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The character 實 (실) originally depicted a string of coins inside a house, representing 'wealth' or 'substance', which evolved to mean 'reality' or 'truth'.

Guide de prononciation

UK hjʌn.ɕil.tɕʌk.i.da
US hjʌn.ɕil.tɕʌk.i.da
Stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '현' (Hyeon) is common.
Rime avec
가식적이다 (gasikjeog-ida) 조직적이다 (jojikjeog-ida) 열정적이다 (yeoljeongjeog-ida) 규칙적이다 (gyuchikjeog-ida) 비극적이다 (bigeukjeog-ida) 희극적이다 (huigeukjeog-ida) 충격적이다 (chunggyeokjeog-ida) 적극적이다 (jeokgeukjeog-ida)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'shil' as 'sil' with a sharp 's'.
  • Omitting the 'k' sound in 'jeok'.
  • Merging 'jeok' and 'i' too much.
  • Pronouncing 'hyeon' like 'heon'.
  • Making the 'd' in 'da' too heavy.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the frequent suffix -적.

Écriture 4/5

Requires correct conjugation of the -이다 ending and modifier forms.

Expression orale 4/5

Pronunciation of 'jeok-i' needs practice to sound natural.

Écoute 3/5

Commonly heard in dramas and news, making it easy to pick up.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

현실 (Reality) 이다 (To be) -적 (Suffix) 생각 (Thought) 계획 (Plan)

Apprends ensuite

실질적이다 (Substantial) 사실적이다 (Factual) 이상적이다 (Idealistic) 실용적이다 (Practical)

Avancé

타산적이다 (Calculating) 현실주의 (Realism) 현실화 (Realization)

Grammaire à connaître

The suffix -적 (的)

경제적 (Economic), 문화적 (Cultural), 현실적 (Realistic)

Noun + 이다 conjugation

현실적이다 -> 현실적이에요, 현실적입니다, 현실적이야

Adjective modifier form -ㄴ/은

현실적인 사람, 현실적인 계획

Adverbial suffix -으로

현실적으로, 경제적으로, 문화적으로

Negation with 비- (非)

비현실적, 비협조적, 비공식적

Exemples par niveau

1

이 계획은 현실적이다.

This plan is realistic.

Standard polite ending -이다.

2

현실적인 꿈을 꾸세요.

Have a realistic dream.

Modifier form -적인.

3

그것은 현실적이지 않아요.

That is not realistic.

Long negation -지 않다.

4

현실적인 생각을 해요.

Think realistic thoughts.

Object marker -을.

5

제 친구는 현실적이에요.

My friend is realistic.

Polite ending -이에요.

6

이것은 현실적인 그림이에요.

This is a realistic picture.

Modifier -적인.

7

현실적으로 말해요.

Speak realistically.

Adverbial form -적으로.

8

비현실적인 이야기예요.

It's an unrealistic story.

Prefix 비- for 'un-'.

1

현실적인 목표를 세우는 것이 중요해요.

It is important to set realistic goals.

Gerund form -는 것.

2

현실적으로 그건 너무 비싸요.

Realistically, that is too expensive.

Adverbial start.

3

현실적인 조언을 해줄 수 있어요?

Can you give me some realistic advice?

Question form.

4

이 영화는 참 현실적이다.

This movie is truly realistic.

Plain style -다.

5

현실적인 문제를 먼저 해결합시다.

Let's solve the realistic problems first.

Suggestion -읍시다.

6

그의 제안은 아주 현실적입니다.

His proposal is very realistic.

Formal ending -입니다.

7

현실적인 기대를 하세요.

Please have realistic expectations.

Imperative -세요.

8

너무 현실적이라서 조금 슬퍼요.

It's so realistic that it's a bit sad.

Cause/reason -라서.

1

우리는 좀 더 현실적인 대안을 찾아야 합니다.

We need to find a more realistic alternative.

Comparative '좀 더'.

2

현실적으로 생각하면, 지금 회사를 그만두는 건 위험해요.

Thinking realistically, quitting the company now is dangerous.

Conditional -면.

3

그녀는 매사에 현실적인 태도를 유지한다.

She maintains a realistic attitude in everything.

Plain style -ㄴ다.

4

비현실적인 꿈보다는 현실적인 목표가 낫다.

Realistic goals are better than unrealistic dreams.

Comparison -보다.

5

이 소설은 현실적인 묘사로 유명해요.

This novel is famous for its realistic descriptions.

Cause marker -로.

6

현실적인 감각을 잃지 않는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important not to lose your realistic sense.

Negation -지 않는 것.

7

그 드라마의 결말은 매우 현실적이었다.

The ending of that drama was very realistic.

Past tense -이었다.

8

현실적인 여건을 고려해서 결정합시다.

Let's decide considering the realistic conditions.

Considering -고려해서.

1

정부는 현실적인 경제 정책을 내놓아야 합니다.

The government must release realistic economic policies.

Obligation -아야 합니다.

2

현실적으로 볼 때, 이번 프로젝트는 성공하기 어렵습니다.

Looking at it realistically, this project is difficult to succeed.

Perspective -로 볼 때.

3

그는 현실적인 이익을 위해 원칙을 버렸다.

He abandoned his principles for realistic gains.

Purpose -위해.

4

현실적인 한계에 부딪히면 어떻게 해야 할까요?

What should I do if I hit realistic limits?

Hitting a limit -에 부딪히다.

5

이 보고서는 시장 상황을 현실적으로 분석하고 있다.

This report is realistically analyzing the market situation.

Progressive -고 있다.

6

현실적인 판단력이 부족하면 큰 손해를 볼 수 있다.

If you lack realistic judgment, you can suffer a large loss.

Possibility -ㄹ 수 있다.

7

그 영화는 전쟁의 참혹함을 현실적으로 그려냈다.

The movie realistically depicted the horrors of war.

Compound verb 그려내다.

8

현실적인 수준에서 합의를 이끌어냈습니다.

We reached an agreement at a realistic level.

Result -을 이끌어내다.

1

이상과 현실 사이에서 현실적인 타협점을 찾아야 한다.

A realistic compromise must be found between the ideal and reality.

Compromise point 타협점.

2

작가는 현실적인 문체로 사회의 부조리를 고발했다.

The author denounced social absurdities with a realistic writing style.

Writing style 문체.

3

현실적으로 가능한 범위를 넘어서는 요구는 거절하세요.

Reject demands that exceed the realistically possible range.

Exceeding -를 넘어서는.

4

그의 비판은 매우 날카롭고 현실적이었다.

His criticism was very sharp and realistic.

Adjective pairing -고.

5

현실적인 제약 때문에 꿈을 포기하는 사람들이 많다.

There are many people who give up their dreams due to realistic constraints.

Constraints 제약.

6

이 제안은 현실적인 타당성이 부족해 보입니다.

This proposal seems to lack realistic validity.

Validity 타당성.

7

현실적으로 접근하지 않으면 문제는 해결되지 않습니다.

Unless you approach it realistically, the problem won't be solved.

Approach 접근.

8

그녀의 연기는 소름 끼칠 정도로 현실적이었다.

Her acting was realistic to the point of giving goosebumps.

Degree -ㄹ 정도로.

1

정치인들은 현실적인 안목을 가지고 민생을 살펴야 한다.

Politicians must have a realistic perspective and look after the people's livelihoods.

Perspective 안목.

2

현실적인 근거가 없는 주장은 설득력을 잃기 마련이다.

Arguments without a realistic basis are bound to lose persuasiveness.

Bound to -기 마련이다.

3

기술의 발전이 비현실적인 상상을 현실적인 것으로 바꾸어 놓았다.

The advancement of technology has turned unrealistic imaginations into realistic ones.

Turning into -로 바꾸어 놓다.

4

그의 논리는 치밀하고 현실적인 데이터에 기반하고 있다.

His logic is based on meticulous and realistic data.

Based on -에 기반하다.

5

현실적인 고뇌를 담아낸 그의 작품은 많은 이들의 공감을 샀다.

His work, which captured realistic anguish, won the sympathy of many.

Capturing -을 담아낸.

6

우리는 현실적인 위협에 대비해 철저한 계획을 세워야 한다.

We must make thorough plans in preparation for realistic threats.

Preparation 대비.

7

현실적으로 볼 때, 이 제도는 전면적인 개편이 불가피하다.

From a realistic standpoint, a complete overhaul of this system is inevitable.

Inevitable 불가피하다.

8

그의 성공은 현실적인 자기 객관화에서 비롯되었다.

His success stemmed from realistic self-objectification.

Stemmed from -에서 비롯되었다.

Collocations courantes

현실적인 계획
현실적인 목표
현실적인 대안
현실적인 고민
현실적인 판단
현실적인 이유
현실적인 감각
현실적인 제약
현실적인 수준
현실적인 묘사

Phrases Courantes

현실적으로 말하자면

— Realistically speaking; used to introduce a pragmatic point.

현실적으로 말하자면, 우린 시간이 없어.

현실적인 감각을 갖다

— To have a sense of reality; to be practical.

리더는 현실적인 감각을 가져야 한다.

현실에 안주하다

— To settle for reality; often used when someone stops trying to improve.

현실에 안주하지 말고 도전하세요.

현실을 직시하다

— To face reality; to look at the truth without avoiding it.

이제는 현실을 직시해야 할 때입니다.

현실적인 벽

— A realistic wall; an insurmountable real-world obstacle.

현실적인 벽에 부딪혔어요.

비현실적인 기대

— Unrealistic expectations.

비현실적인 기대는 실망을 낳는다.

현실적인 조건

— Realistic conditions or terms.

현실적인 조건을 제시해 주세요.

현실적인 타협

— A realistic compromise.

결국 현실적인 타협을 선택했다.

현실적인 비전

— A realistic vision for the future.

우리 회사는 현실적인 비전이 필요하다.

현실적인 해결책

— A realistic solution.

현실적인 해결책을 찾아봅시다.

Souvent confondu avec

현실적이다 vs 실제 (Actual)

실제 is for facts/existence; 현실적 is for feasibility/realism.

현실적이다 vs 사실 (Fact)

사실 is a noun meaning 'fact'; 사실적 is 'factual/true-to-life'.

현실적이다 vs 실용적 (Practical)

실용적 is for tools/utility; 현실적 is for situations/plans.

Expressions idiomatiques

"꿈보다 해몽이 좋다"

— The interpretation is better than the dream; used when something mundane is made to sound realistic and great.

그의 말은 꿈보다 해몽이 좋네요.

Colloquial
"우물 안 개구리"

— A frog in a well; someone who lacks a realistic view of the wide world.

현실적인 감각이 없는 우물 안 개구리 같아요.

Common
"뜬구름 잡다"

— To catch floating clouds; to chase unrealistic dreams.

뜬구름 잡는 소리 하지 말고 현실적으로 생각해.

Informal
"그림의 떡"

— A rice cake in a picture; something realistic in sight but unattainable.

그 집은 나에게 그림의 떡이다.

Common
"발이 땅에 닿다"

— To have feet touch the ground; to become realistic/grounded.

이제야 발이 땅에 닿은 기분이다.

Metaphorical
"현실은 시궁창"

— Reality is a gutter; a slang expression for a harsh reality.

꿈은 크지만 현실은 시궁창이다.

Slang
"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a bottomless pot; an unrealistic/futile task.

이건 현실적으로 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기예요.

Common
"산 넘어 산"

— Mountain after mountain; facing realistic problems one after another.

현실적인 문제들이 산 넘어 산이다.

Common
"하늘의 별 따기"

— Plucking a star from the sky; something realistically impossible.

취직이 하늘의 별 따기처럼 현실적으로 힘들다.

Common
"금강산도 식후경"

— Even Geumgang Mountain is after a meal; being realistic about basic needs before beauty.

금강산도 식후경이니 현실적으로 밥부터 먹자.

Common

Facile à confondre

현실적이다 vs 사실적이다

Both translate to 'realistic' in English.

사실적이다 is about accuracy of representation (like a photo). 현실적이다 is about feasibility (like a plan).

사진이 참 사실적이다 (The photo is factual). 계획이 참 현실적이다 (The plan is realistic).

현실적이다 vs 실질적이다

Both imply 'real'.

실질적이다 means 'substantial' or 'having actual effect'.

실질적인 도움이 필요하다 (We need substantial/practical help).

현실적이다 vs 합리적이다

Both relate to making sense.

합리적이다 means 'rational' or 'logical'. A price can be rational (합리적) without necessarily being realistic (현실적) for your budget.

합리적인 가격 (A reasonable price).

현실적이다 vs 구체적이다

Detailed plans are often realistic.

구체적이다 means 'specific' or 'concrete'. A plan can be specific but still unrealistic.

구체적인 계획 (A specific plan).

현실적이다 vs 생생하다

Used for 'lifelike' things.

생생하다 is 'vivid' or 'lifelike' in a sensory way.

기억이 생생하다 (The memory is vivid).

Structures de phrases

A2

이것은 [Noun] + 현실적이다

이것은 현실적인 계획이다.

A2

현실적으로 [Verb]

현실적으로 생각해요.

B1

[Noun]보다 현실적인 [Noun]

꿈보다 현실적인 목표가 좋다.

B1

현실적으로 볼 때 [Clause]

현실적으로 볼 때 시간이 부족해요.

B2

현실적인 [Noun]을/를 고려하다

현실적인 제약을 고려해야 한다.

B2

전혀 현실적이지 않다

그 말은 전혀 현실적이지 않다.

C1

현실적인 타협점을 찾다

우리는 현실적인 타협점을 찾았다.

C1

현실적인 근거에 기반하다

이 주장은 현실적인 근거에 기반한다.

Famille de mots

Noms

현실 (Reality)
현실주의 (Realism)
현실감 (Sense of reality)
현실성 (Feasibility/Realism)

Verbes

현실화하다 (To realize/make real)
현실화되다 (To be realized)

Adjectifs

현실적이다 (To be realistic)
비현실적이다 (To be unrealistic)

Apparenté

사실 (Fact)
실제 (Actual)
실제 상황 (Actual situation)
현장 (The scene/site)
현재 (Present)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very High in both spoken and written Korean.

Erreurs courantes
  • 현실적 사과 (Realistic apple) 진짜 사과 / 사실적인 사과 그림

    현실적 is for concepts/feasibility, not physical objects being 'real'.

  • 그는 현실적이다 사람이다. 그는 현실적인 사람이다.

    You must use the modifier form -적인 before a noun.

  • 현실적 말하면... 현실적으로 말하면...

    Use the adverbial form -적으로 to modify the verb 'speak'.

  • 이것은 사실적이다 (meaning 'feasible'). 이것은 현실적이다.

    사실적이다 is for 'factual/accurate', not 'feasible'.

  • 현실적인 이름 (Realistic name) 실제 이름 (Actual name)

    Use 실제 for 'actual' or 'factual' existence.

Astuces

Use for Feasibility

Always use this word when you want to discuss whether a plan or goal can actually be achieved.

Modifier Form

Remember to change it to 현실적인 when it comes before a noun.

Pragmatism

Koreans value being realistic, so this word is often a compliment for a well-thought-out plan.

Sentence Starter

Start difficult conversations with '현실적으로...' to show you are being practical, not just negative.

Contrast

Contrast 현실적 with 이상적 (idealistic) to show a balanced perspective in essays.

Drama Context

In romance dramas, listen for this word when characters discuss their future together.

Root Word

Focus on the root '현실' (reality) to help you remember related words like '현실주의'.

Avoid for 'Actual'

Don't use it for 'actual existence'. Use '실제' for that.

Coldness

Be careful when calling a person 'too realistic' (너무 현실적), as it might sound like an insult.

Daily Goals

Try writing one '현실적인 목표' every morning in your Korean study journal.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a 'Hyeon' (sun) shining on a 'Shil' (shield). The sun shows the 'Reality' (현실) of the situation on the shield. It's 'Jeok-i-da' (it is characteristic of that).

Association visuelle

A person standing on solid ground (현실) looking at a ladder that only goes halfway to a cloud (비현실적).

Word Web

현실 (Reality) 현실적 (Realistic) 현실주의 (Realism) 현실감 (Sense of reality) 현실성 (Possibility) 비현실적 (Unrealistic) 현실화 (Realization) 현실적으로 (Realistically)

Défi

Try to describe your daily routine using '현실적으로'. Then, describe your dream life using '비현실적으로'. Compare the two.

Origine du mot

Composed of the Hanja (Sino-Korean) roots 現 (현 - present/manifest) and 實 (실 - fruit/truth/reality) + the suffix 的 (적 - target/characteristic) + 이다 (to be).

Sens originel : To be of the nature of the present reality.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Contexte culturel

Be careful when telling someone their dream is not '현실적', as it can be discouraging. Use it mostly for plans and objects.

In English, 'realistic' is often positive. In Korean, it can sometimes sound a bit cold or 'too pragmatic' depending on the tone.

The movie 'Parasite' is often praised for being '현실적' in its depiction of class struggle. K-drama 'Misaeng' is the ultimate '현실적' office drama. The term '현실 자각 타임' (Hyun-ja-time) refers to the moment reality hits you.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At Work

  • 현실적인 일정
  • 현실적인 예산
  • 현실적인 목표
  • 현실적으로 검토하다

With Friends

  • 현실적으로 생각해
  • 현실적인 조언
  • 너무 비현실적이야
  • 현실적인 문제

Art/Media

  • 현실적인 묘사
  • 현실적인 연기
  • 현실적인 결말
  • 사실적이다

Education

  • 현실적인 학습 계획
  • 현실적인 목표 설정
  • 현실적인 피드백
  • 현실적인 수준

Finance

  • 현실적인 가격
  • 현실적인 수입
  • 현실적인 지출
  • 현실적인 투자

Amorces de conversation

"이 계획이 정말 현실적이라고 생각하세요?"

"현실적으로 우리가 이번 달에 여행을 갈 수 있을까요?"

"가장 현실적인 해결책이 무엇일까요?"

"요즘 드라마들은 너무 비현실적인 것 같아요. 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"현실적인 조언을 좀 해줄 수 있어?"

Sujets d'écriture

오늘 내가 세운 목표 중에서 가장 현실적인 것은 무엇인가?

꿈과 현실 사이에서 갈등했던 경험에 대해 써보세요.

현실적으로 내가 1년 안에 이룰 수 있는 것은 무엇일까?

내가 본 영화나 책 중에서 가장 현실적이었던 캐릭터는 누구인가?

현실적인 사람이 되는 것이 좋은 점과 나쁜 점은 무엇인가?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, it means the person is practical and down-to-earth. However, be aware that it can sometimes imply they are not very imaginative or are a bit cold.

비현실적 (unrealistic) is the direct opposite. It's used for things that are impossible, like fairy tales or extreme expectations.

Very much so! It's used for budgets, deadlines, and project feasibility constantly.

No. For a real apple (not a toy), use '진짜 사과'. 현실적 is for qualities and ideas.

Use the phrase '현실적으로 말하자면' or simply start with '현실적으로'.

It's generally neutral to positive (meaning practical), but can be negative if it implies a lack of ambition.

Yes, but '사실적이다' (factual/realistic) is more common for visual accuracy.

It's a Sino-Korean suffix that turns a noun into an adjective, similar to '-ic' or '-al' in English.

현실적이었다 (plain), 현실적이었어요 (polite).

Yes, that is the standard modifier form.

Teste-toi 99 questions

writing

Write 'The plan is realistic' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Realistic dream' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write 'Think realistically' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say '현실적인 목표' aloud.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen to the word: 현실적이다. What does it mean?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 99 correct

Perfect score!

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