In summarizing a novel where someone transitions from an idealistic to a more pragmatic worldview, what would a word for that realization be? Like the process of understanding reality often disappoints in a sense
1
-
"Growing up", perhaps?– Hot LicksCommented Dec 10, 2020 at 13:53
Add a comment
|
3 Answers
I suggest disenchant, which Merriam-Webster defines as—
to free from illusion
If you are more comfortable with an idiom, this one from Collins fits the bill nicely—
The scales have fallen from someones eyes
-
1To which idiom does the Collins link refer? I don't know why you removed it. Commented Dec 10, 2020 at 11:35
-
1@Weather Vane— Sorry, I edited it again because I thought if one clicked the link, one would be able to access the answer. Please edit the answer if I have made a mistake. :) Commented Dec 10, 2020 at 11:38
-
1Link-only answers are disapproved for at least two reasons I can think of. They are better used to support an answer. Commented Dec 10, 2020 at 11:39
-
-
1
I'd suggest epiphany.
Merriam-Webster is quite perspicuous when it comes to defining the term:
(1): a usually sudden manifestation or perception of the essential nature or meaning of something
(2): an intuitive grasp of reality through something (such as an event) usually simple and striking
(3): an illuminating discovery, realization, or disclosure
I can think of someone being disillusioned. But you could also use a more idiomatic expression like come down or back to earth or return to reality. Check the links for synonyms.
