Which phrase is correct "the ship model looks real" or "the ship model looks realistic?"
It seems that according to some dictionary definitions they are both acceptable in this case.
Learn English – “Look real” or “look realistic”
adverbsword-choice
Best Answer
There's a subtle difference in common usage:
"Looks realistic": The observer is fully aware the object is not real.
"Looks real": The observer believes the object is, or at least could be, real.