realpolitik

noun

re·al·po·li·tik rā-ˈäl-ˌpō-li-ˌtēk

often capitalized

: politics based on practical and material factors rather than on theoretical or ethical objectives

Examples of realpolitik in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Stalin apparently considered such realpolitik questions too sensitive for open conversation during the campaign. —

Benn Steil, Foreign Affairs, 19 Mar. 2024 The present moment, when the boundary between identity politics and global realpolitik has become blurry, clarifies the novel’s stakes. —

Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker, 15 Feb. 2024 But make no mistake: whether one cares about the future of democracy in Asia or prefers to ponder only the cold math of realpolitik, Taiwan’s fate matters. —

Andrew S. Erickson, Foreign Affairs, 16 Feb. 2024 The relationship also underscores the Emirates’ realpolitik foreign policy. —

TIME, 13 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for realpolitik

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'realpolitik.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.