reality

[riˈæləti]

reality Definition

• 1. the state of things as they actually exist, as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them
• 2. the quality or state of being real
• 3. a thing that is actually experienced or seen, especially when this is grim or problematic

Using reality: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reality" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The reality of the situation is that we don't have enough money to buy a new car.

• Example

  The reality of war is often brutal and devastating.

• Example

  The reality of living in poverty is a daily struggle for many people.

• Example

  The reality is that climate change is a serious threat to our planet.

reality Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reality

• actuality
• truth
• fact
• existence
• realness

Antonyms for reality

• fiction
• imagination
• fantasy

Idioms Using reality

• reality check

  an assessment or evaluation of the facts or truth of a situation

  Example

  We need to do a reality check and see if our plans are realistic.

• grasp reality

  understand and accept the truth of a situation

  Example

  It took her a while to grasp the reality of the situation and come to terms with it.

• escape from reality

  engage in activities or behaviors that provide a temporary distraction from the problems or difficulties of everyday life

  Example

  Watching movies is his way of escaping from reality and forgetting about his problems.

Phrases with reality

• face reality

  accept and deal with the truth of a situation

  Example

  It's time to face reality and admit that we can't afford to go on vacation this year.

• in reality

  in fact, actually

  Example

  In reality, he was never really interested in the job.

• virtual reality

  a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real way by a person using special electronic equipment

  Example

  He spent hours playing virtual reality games on his new headset.

Origins of reality

from Old French 'realite', from medieval Latin 'realitas', from Latin 'res', meaning 'thing'

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Summary: reality in Brief

The term 'reality' [riˈæləti] refers to the actual state of things, as opposed to an idealized version. It can also refer to the quality of being real or something that is experienced, often in a negative sense. Phrases like 'face reality' and 'reality check' denote accepting the truth of a situation, while 'escape from reality' implies avoiding it. 'Virtual reality' refers to computer-generated simulations of a three-dimensional environment.