Meaning & use

reality

noun·Academic

The state of things as they actually exist, rather than as they are imagined, described, or wished to be.

See it in a sentence

It took months for the reality of the move to finally sink in.

The documentary contrasts the glamorous myth of the gold rush with its harsh reality.

A note on using this word

Reality contrasts with belief, hope, or appearance; the phrase 'in reality' is often used to correct a mistaken impression.

Words with a similar meaning

actualityfact

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Make it your own

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