Real

Definition

The term "real" refers to something that exists as a fact or reality, as opposed to being imaginary, artificial, or hypothetical. It can also describe authenticity, genuineness, or practical application.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Adverb (informal)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈriːəl/, /ˈrɪəl/, /ˈreɪəl/
• Respelling: REE-uhl, RIH-uhl, RAY-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈriːəl/, /ˈrɪəl/
• Respelling: REE-uhl, RIH-uhl

Etymology

The word "real" originates from the Latin "realis," meaning "actual" or "relating to things," derived from "res" (thing). It entered Old French as "real" and Middle English in the late 14th century, initially to denote "having an objective existence."

Derivatives

• Reality (noun)
• Realism (noun)
• Realist (noun/adjective)
• Realistic (adjective)
• Unreal (adjective)

Synonyms

• Genuine
• Actual
• Authentic

Antonyms

• Fake
• Imaginary
• Unreal

Usage

The term "real" is commonly used to contrast authenticity or existence with fakeness or imagination. For example, "This diamond is real, not synthetic," or "The danger was very real."

Related Terms

• Authenticity: The quality of being genuine or true.
• Reality: The state of things as they actually exist.
• Existence: The fact or state of living or having objective reality.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Existing or occurring as a fact, not imaginary or artificial:
  • Example: "The threat of a storm is real."
• Genuine or authentic, not counterfeit or imitation:
  • Example: "This is a real leather bag."
• Practical or substantial rather than theoretical:
  • Example: "He gained real experience during the internship."

Noun

• A thing that is real or exists as a fact:
  • Example: "The real is often stranger than fiction."

Adverb (informal)

• Very or extremely (used colloquially):
  • Example: "The movie was real good."