as in naturalism
realistic depiction in art and literature using ordinary people as models, even when depicting the greatest of saints, Caravaggio brought an unforgiving realism to painting that was unprecedented

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of realism Abraham’s debut, which features a standout performance by Fleabag’s Clifford, cleverly blends satirical humour with magical realism, exploring our deep need for human connection and to be seen. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2025 But Wednesday’s military parade, the largest ever held by China, also shows that whatever the emerging world order is, it is governed by harsh realism, self-interest, and opportunism. Kerry Brown, Time, 4 Sep. 2025 In both cases, dispatchers heard what sounded like gunshots in the background of the calls — lending a disturbing realism. Rebekah Riess, CNN Money, 1 Sep. 2025 This, on the other hand, is a stranger and more difficult proposition, with its experiments in magical realism, unsettling dances, and centering of cultish women. Radhika Seth, Vogue, 1 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for realism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for realism
Noun
  • Needless to say, Zhao’s signature naturalism serves Agnes well.
    David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 30 Aug. 2025
  • Yen said she was struck by their similar artistic values through the years and by Diaz’s ability with surrealism and naturalism.
    Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • For Greengrass, this is a technique to generate even greater verisimilitude.
    Andy Hazel, IndieWire, 8 Sep. 2025
  • That should turn our attention to those strictures, rather than to questioning the verisimilitude of her melodramatic doom.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2025

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“Realism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/realism. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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