realpolitik

or Re·al·po·li·tik

[ rey-ahl-poh-li-teek, ree- ]

noun

1. political realism or practical politics, especially policy based on power rather than on ideals.

realpolitik

/ reɪˈɑːlpɒlɪˈtiːk /

noun

1. a ruthlessly realistic and opportunist approach to statesmanship, rather than a moralistic one, esp as exemplified by Bismarck

realpolitik

1. Governmental policies based on hard, practical considerations rather than on moral or idealistic concerns. Realpolitik is German for “the politics of reality” and is often applied to the policies of nations that consider only their own interests in dealing with other countries.

Other Words From

• re·al·po·li·tik·er [rey-, ahl, -poh-lee-ti-ker, ree-], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of realpolitik¹

First recorded in 1910–15; from German, equivalent to real real ¹ + Politik “politics, policy”; politic

Word History and Origins

Origin of realpolitik¹

C19: German: politics of realism

Example Sentences

In the end, realpolitik triumphed, with Kenya not prepared to jeopardise its closer ties with Turkey, which saw the two countries sign a military co-operation agreement in July.

From BBC

I get that the winning calculus for Democrats right now must lean on cold, hard realpolitik if they want to stop Donald Trump from retaking the White House.

From Los Angeles Times

The relationship also underscores the Emirates’ realpolitik foreign policy.

From Seattle Times

Both of these were unlikely propositions, the opposite of cold-eyed realpolitik.

From Salon

What followed was a Cold War-era drama that would serve American interests - a key component of Kissinger’s practice of realpolitik.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• civics