Realistlik

Realistlik is an Estonian adjective meaning realistic or pertaining to realism. It is formed from the noun realist and the suffix -lik, which yields phrases such as “like a realist” or “realistic.”

In art and literature, realistlik describes works that represent life and social conditions without idealization, focusing on ordinary people, concrete details, and causal relationships. In Estonian literary history, realism emerged in the 19th century as a counter to romanticism, with writers such as Eduard Vilde and A. H. Tammsaare contributing to its development. In modern usage, it can describe practical and pragmatic approaches, for example realistlik hinnang (a realistic assessment) or realistlik prognoos (a realistic forecast).

The term contrasts with idealistlik (idealistic) and naturalistlik (naturalistic) in its emphasis on accuracy and social observation. See also Realism, Estonian literature.