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How to Say "down-to-earth" in Spanish

English → Spanish

práctico

adjectiveA2general
Use 'práctico' when describing something or someone that is useful, functional, and focused on concrete reality, especially in a material or functional sense.

Examples

Necesito un coche que sea más práctico para la ciudad.

I need a car that is more practical for the city.

realista

/reh-ah-LEES-tah//re.aˈlis.ta/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'realista' when describing someone who has a sensible, realistic outlook and understands what is achievable or likely, often in contrast to being overly idealistic.
A person packing a sturdy backpack with a water bottle and a map for a hike.

Examples

Tienes que ser realista; no podemos comprar ese coche ahora.

You have to be realistic; we can't buy that car right now.

Ella es muy realista y siempre tiene los pies en la tierra.

She is very down-to-earth and always has her feet on the ground.

One Form for Everyone

Even though many Spanish words change to end in 'o' or 'a' based on gender, 'realista' stays exactly the same for both men and women.

Avoid 'Realisto'

Mistake: “Soy un hombre muy realisto.”

Correction: Soy un hombre muy realista. Words ending in -ista never change to -isto for men.

Práctico vs. Realista

Learners often confuse 'práctico' and 'realista' because both relate to practicality. Remember that 'práctico' focuses more on usefulness and functionality, while 'realista' emphasizes a sensible, grounded perspective on what's possible.

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