Impractical vs. Realistic — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 2, 2024
Impractical ideas or methods are often unrealistic or difficult to implement effectively in real-world scenarios; realistic approaches are practical, feasible, and grounded in actual conditions and constraints.
Difference Between Impractical and Realistic
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Impractical refers to ideas or methods that are not adapted to real-world circumstances, often due to complexity, inefficiency, or unrealistic expectations. Whereas realistic describes approaches or expectations that are practical, feasible, and considerate of actual conditions and constraints.
Impractical solutions may disregard key factors such as cost, resources, or the current technology, which can lead to proposals that are difficult or impossible to execute effectively. On the other hand, realistic solutions take these factors into account, ensuring that plans are viable and implementable.
In the context of decision-making, impractical decisions are typically based on an ideal scenario without regard for potential obstacles or challenges. Conversely, realistic decisions are made with a clear understanding of the environment, limitations, and probable outcomes.
For instance, aiming to transform an entire city's infrastructure within a year would be impractical due to the scale and complexity involved. However, planning a phased transformation over several years would be a realistic approach, acknowledging the scope and resource requirements.
Choosing impractical options often leads to wasted effort and resources, as the plans may be abandoned when their unfeasibility becomes apparent. In contrast, realistic planning tends to lead to more sustainable and succ
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Not practical or feasible
Practical and feasible
Considerations
Often overlooks constraints and limitations
Takes into account constraints and limits
Outcome
Likely leads to failure or inefficiency
Leads to achievable and sustainable results
Decision-making Base
Based on ideal or theoretical scenarios
Based on real-world conditions
Implementation
Difficult or impossible to implement
Viable and implementable
Compare with Definitions
Impractical
Inconvenient, unwieldy, or difficult to use.
The design was beautiful but impractical for everyday use.
Realistic
Sensible and likely to succeed.
Setting realistic goals at the outset enhanced the project's success rate.
Impractical
Not adapted for use or action; not sensible or realistic.
The plan to relocate the capital was deemed impractical due to excessive costs.
Realistic
Attuned to practicality or the actual state of affairs.
She made a realistic assessment of her chances of winning the election.
Impractical
Unrealistic or visionary.
Her impractical dreams often left her disappointed.
Realistic
Practical and having plans based on actual conditions.
His realistic approach to budgeting saved the company during the crisis.
Impractical
Not capable of being carried out or put into practice.
His idea, while innovative, was impractical for small businesses.
Realistic
Expecting and prepared for what is achievable.
His realistic expectations prevented any undue disappointments.
Impractical
Unwise to implement or maintain in practice
Refloating the sunken ship proved impractical because of the great expense.
Realistic
Having or showing a sensible and practical idea of what can be achieved or expected
I thought we had a realistic chance of winning
Impractical
Incapable of dealing efficiently with practical matters, especially finances.
Realistic
Representing things in a way that is accurate and true to life
A realistic human drama
Impractical
Not a part of experience, fact, or practice; theoretical.
Realistic
Tending to or expressing an awareness of things as they really are
She gave us a realistic appraisal of our chances.
Impractical
Impracticable. See Usage Note at impracticable.
Realistic
Of or relating to the representation of objects, actions, or social conditions as they actually are
A realistic novel about coal mining.
Impractical
Not practical; impracticable
Realistic
Expressed or represented as being accurate, practicable, or not idealistic.
A realistic appraisal of the situation.
Impractical
Not practical.
Realistic
Relating to the representation of objects, actions or conditions as they actually are or were.
A realistic novel about the Victorian poor.
Impractical
Not practical; not workable or not given to practical matters;
Refloating the ship proved impractical because of the expense
He is intelligent but too impractical for commercial work
Realistic
Of or pertaining to the realists; in the manner of the realists; characterized by realism rather than by imagination.
Impractical
Not practical or realizable; speculative;
Airy theories about socioeconomic improvement
Visionary schemes for getting rich
Realistic
Aware or expressing awareness of things as they really are;
A realistic description
A realistic view of the possibilities
A realistic appraisal of our chances
The actors tried to create a realistic portrayal of the Africans
Impractical
Lacking practical sense or judgment.
His impractical approach to problem-solving often complicates simple issues.
Realistic
Representing what is real; not abstract or ideal;
Realistic portraiture
A realistic novel
In naturalistic colors
The school of naturalistic writers
Realistic
Of or relating to the philosophical doctrine of realism;
A realistic system of thought
Realistic
Showing things and people as they are in real life.
The movie offered a realistic portrayal of urban life.
Common Curiosities
Why do some prefer impractical approaches?
Some prefer impractical approaches due to a strong vision or idealism that prioritizes ambition over practicality.
How can one be more realistic?
Being more realistic involves considering actual conditions, acknowledging limitations, and setting achievable goals.
Are there any benefits to impractical ideas?
Impractical ideas can sometimes spark creativity and lead to groundbreaking solutions when adjusted for practicality.
What impact does impractical thinking have on a team?
Impractical thinking can lead to frustration, inefficiency, and disillusionment within a team when goals are consistently unmet.
What sets "impractical" apart from "realistic"?
Impractical's wishful, realistic's achievable.
What defines an impractical idea?
An impractical idea is one that is not feasible or practical to implement, often due to overlooking real-world constraints.
What is the importance of realistic planning?
Realistic planning is essential for achieving sustainable results and avoiding the pitfalls of wasted resources and potential failure.
How does one shift from impractical to realistic thinking?
Shifting from impractical to realistic thinking involves grounding one's expectations and strategies in real-world possibilities and acknowledging limitations.
Can something be both impractical and realistic?
Typically, something cannot be both impractical and realistic, as these terms generally oppose each other in practical application.
Is being realistic always the better approach?
While being realistic is generally more effective for achieving goals, occasionally, impractical ideas can inspire innovation when adapted properly.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
