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

That, more or less, with the realpolitik again left unspoken, has been the position that Washington has maintained to date over Russia’s occupation of Crimea. —The Editors, National Review, 24 Apr. 2025

With the return of realpolitik, the Trump Administration may yet find ways to access D.R.C.’s minerals, just not in a way that Tshisekedi might want. —Nicolas Niarchos, New Yorker, 15 Apr. 2025

The unnecessary alienation of allies weakens U.S. power and influence in the world—and directly cuts against the principles of Kissinger-style realpolitik. —Michael McFaul, Foreign Affairs, 4 Apr. 2025

Some Brits reject the realpolitik approach, wanting instead to see public figures stand up to Trump. —Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

German, from real actual + Politik politics

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for realpolitik

• conglomeratic
• erythrocytic
• extrahepatic
• granulocytic
• intrahepatic
• monozygotic
• actinic
• agnatic
• bailiwick
• bolshevik
• candlestick
• chloritic