adj

real

reel

adj

Actually existing or happening, rather than imagined, fictional, or invented.

"The story is based on real events."

"Is that a real diamond?"

Genuine and sincere, not fake or pretended.

"Her concern for him seemed completely real."

In economics, adjusted for inflation so it reflects true purchasing power.

"Real wages have barely risen in a decade, even though pay cheques look bigger."

adv

Very; really, used informally.

"That's real nice of you."

How to Use Real

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishActually existing, true, or genuine, as opposed to fake, imagined, or pretend.

Common mistake

In economics, "real" means adjusted for inflation, as opposed to "nominal," which is the raw, unadjusted figure.

Common pairings

real life real deal real wages get real

Word Forms

realer comparative, more real comparative, reals plural, reals plural, reales plural, reis plural, réis plural, reals plural, reais plural, reals plural, realest superlative, most real superlative

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Test yourself on “real” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The story is based on _____ events.

Etymology

From Old French reel, from Late Latin reālis ("actual"), ultimately from Latin res ("thing, matter").

Synonyms

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true actual authentic genuine heartfelt based

Antonyms

imaginary nonreal unreal artificial counterfeit fake sham feigned

Related Words

counterfeit bad spurious true artificial unreal untrustworthy copy

Rhymes for real

deal zeal teal meal seal heal peal veal Neal beal ideal wheal

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