Synonyms of realism

realism

noun

ˈrē-ə-ˌli-zəm 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• naturalism
• verisimilitude
• literalism
• authenticity
• representationalism
• verismo
• photo-realism
• grittiness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of realism

The lines between Afrofuturism and magical realism obviously overlap. — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 29 July 2026

The game feels more atmospheric with fog and snow effects, while the lighting increases the realism and moodiness of the campaign. — Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 29 July 2026

And that is where Curry’s realism becomes especially poignant. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 26 July 2026

He’s also expected to deliver more than a straightforward genre film, emphasizing the social realism aspects and sensory prose of the novel. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 24 July 2026