a real object

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real object" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when distinguishing between something that is tangible and physical versus something that is abstract or imaginary. Example: "In the virtual reality game, players can interact with a real object, such as a chair, rather than just a digital representation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It consists in giving confident presence to sculpture as a real object set loose in the real world.

The New Yorker

Louis's verdict: This is so much more fun than coding with Scratch, because you're coding a real object.

The Guardian - Tech

These 'ultrahaptics' use ultrasound to manipulate air molecules in a layer above the screen, providing the sensation of touching a real object through the skin of a user.

The Guardian - Tech

"But the key to creating a compelling illusion that you're touching a real object is that the sensations you feel match all the motions that you make.

The New Yorker

The firm is demonstrating a software-based machine-vision recognition system intended for smartphones and tablet computers that embeds images and videos directly on top of the image of a real object on the user's display.

The New York Times - Tech

2. Intentional content seems to play a role in people's thoughts even when it is about a real object in the world, since people can associate different intentional contents with the same real object.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Of course, the Amber Room is magnificent and its history alluring, but it has become more a symbol than a real object of art," said Mikhail Piotrovsky, director of the State Hermitage Museum in St . Petersburg

The New York Times - Arts

A buckled bunk bed is swathed under a gold-plated mosquito net in Steve McQueen's Weight, as much an apparition of a frowzy and squalidly magnificent bridal bed as a real object.

The Guardian - Arts

Creating such a piece of new media, to stand alongside a real object in a gallery where authenticity is everything, demands a finely tuned sensitivity, and accuracy in every detail.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The association of several moving regions to a same real object is still an open problem.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

It's a real, tangible object that someone has crafted by hand".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a real object" to clearly distinguish between physical items and virtual or abstract concepts in descriptions and explanations.

Common error

Avoid using "a real object" when referring to representations or simulations. Instead, reserve it for tangible items that exist in the physical world.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real object" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a direct object, subject complement, or object of a preposition. It's used to denote something tangible and authentic, contrasting with abstract ideas or virtual simulations. Ludwig examples showcase its use in scientific and artistic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real object" is a common noun phrase used to emphasize the tangibility and authenticity of something, especially when contrasting it with abstract concepts or virtual representations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently encountered in scientific and news contexts and generally maintains a neutral to formal tone. While alternatives like "a tangible item" or "a physical object" exist, "a real object" specifically highlights the non-artificial nature of the item. Use this phrase to ensure clarity in your writing, especially when precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tangible item

Focuses on the touchable, perceptible nature of the object.

a physical object

Emphasizes the object's existence in the physical world.

an actual object

Highlights the genuineness and non-artificial nature of the object.

a concrete thing

Stresses the object's solid and definite form, contrasting with abstract concepts.

a material item

Indicates the object is made of matter and has physical substance.

a genuine article

Implies authenticity and that the object is not a copy or imitation.

a palpable entity

Stresses that the object can be easily perceived or felt.

an existing thing

Focuses on the present existence of the object.

a substantial item

Highlights the object's significant size or importance.

an objective entity

Emphasizes that the object exists independently of subjective perception.

FAQs

How can I use "a real object" in a sentence?

Use "a real object" to emphasize the tangible nature of something, as opposed to a concept, representation, or simulation. For instance, "The study involved observing how people interact with "a real object" versus a virtual one".

What's the difference between "a real object" and "a physical object"?

While similar, "a real object" often emphasizes authenticity and tangibility, whereas "a physical object" simply denotes something existing in the physical world. You might use "a real object" when contrasting with something imagined or simulated.

What are some alternatives to "a real object"?

You can use alternatives like "a tangible item", "an actual object", or "a concrete thing" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a real physical object"?

While not strictly incorrect, saying "a real physical object" can be redundant. Since "physical" implies reality, using just "a real object" or "a physical object" is usually sufficient for clarity.