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

That was the high baroque period of Black style in the United States, when pimp realism became aspirational for all, even the respectable. — Lucy Sante, Vanity Fair, 21 Sep. 2026

The on-screen legacy of the wiseguys and their associates (and, yes, that legendary Copacabana scene) has endured decades later, and the movie, celebrated for its stylish camerawork and gritty realism, remains a filmmaking masterclass. — Glenn Garner, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2026

But Everytime is colder and stranger, beginning in observational realism before destabilizing time, point of view, and, eventually, reality. — Taylor Antrim, Vogue, 19 Sep. 2026

Subverting the unassuming realism of the city with the twisted unreality of this level design not only heightens the uncanny factor but also unlocks more design creativity. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026