Real Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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real

[rɪəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

life

Actually existing as a thing or occurring in fact; not imagined or supposed.

Synonyms

actual, authentic, genuine.

Examples of usage

  • It's important to distinguish between what is real and what is imaginary.
  • The pain felt by the patient is real and should not be dismissed.
Context #2 | Noun

estate

Property consisting of land or buildings.

Synonyms

estate, land, property.

Examples of usage

  • His family owns a lot of real estate in the city.
  • Investment in real estate can be profitable if done wisely.
Context #3 | Adverb

quick

In a straightforward or honest manner.

Synonyms

honestly, sincerely, truthfully.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke to her real about his feelings.
  • She told the truth real, without any hesitation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often debate the nature of reality and how it differs from perception, influencing many fields including metaphysics.
  • The concept of realism in philosophy suggests that the world exists independently of our beliefs or perceptions.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'real' is often used in media contexts as part of phrases like 'keeping it real', signaling authenticity in lifestyles and actions.
  • Reality TV shows exploded in popularity in the 2000s, bringing the notion of 'real' to mainstream entertainment, even if sometimes exaggerated.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychology studies how people perceive real events versus imagined scenarios, examining the reliability of memory.
  • Delusions are a psychological condition where individuals believe in realities that do not exist, showcasing the thin line between reality and perception.

Science

  • In physics, the nature of reality is often explored through concepts like quantum mechanics, where particles can exist in multiple states.
  • Scientific methods aim to differentiate between what is real and what is theoretical, constantly evolving as new discoveries are made.

Origin of 'real'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'realis' meaning 'actual' or 'true'.
  • First appeared in English around the 14th century, initially describing something that is genuine or authentic.

The word 'real' originated from the Latin word 'realis', meaning 'actual, pertaining to things'. It entered the English language in the 15th century and has been used to describe things that exist in reality rather than just in the imagination. Over time, 'real' has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings and contexts, becoming a versatile word in everyday language.


See also: realism, realistic, realistically, reality, realize, really, realtor, surreal, unreal, unrealised, unrealistic, unrealistically, unrealizable, unrealized, unrealness.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #335, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.