a real picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real picture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an actual photograph or image, as opposed to a digital representation or a drawing. Example: "After searching for hours, I finally found a real picture of the historic event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"You get a real picture of the designer's personality".

The New York Times

It is, after all, a real picture, and thus imperfect.

The Economist

"The system is not good because you're not getting a real picture out here," he said.

The New Yorker

"So we've got a real picture man here!" exclaimed La Borwits.

The New Yorker

"We hope to get a real picture of working conditions for sex workers.

The Guardian

It's a real picture postcard of his life, and I'm proud of it.

The Guardian

But by 6am a real picture of the results had begun to emerge.Mr Fico exuded caution in his victory speech.

The Economist

"Anyway, at least that's a real picture," Mack added later, when they were stretching one of Stanger's canvases.

The New Yorker

Mr. Alasania said late Sunday night that exit polls "do not give a real picture," and that he was waiting for a final vote count.

The New York Times

Light the candles beneath the chafing dish, lay the table with the charcoal-textured dinnerware we hardly ever used, and you had yourself a real picture.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a real picture-postcard valley, with green fields climbing up the slopes, cows peacefully ruminating in the shade of pine trees, large farmhouses with wooden balconies decked with flowers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real picture" to describe data or a situation, ensure that the information is comprehensive and unbiased to avoid misrepresenting the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "a real picture" when a literal image is not involved. Overusing visual metaphors can weaken your writing. Consider more precise language to convey accuracy or understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real picture" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object within a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It denotes something genuine, authentic, or a literal photograph, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a real picture" is a versatile expression used to convey authenticity, accuracy, or the literal sense of a photograph. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, especially in news, science, and general discussions. When employing this phrase, consider whether you're emphasizing genuineness, accuracy, or referring to an actual image. Be mindful of overusing it as a metaphor and consider more precise alternatives to ensure clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A tangible photograph

Stresses the physical aspect of the picture, in opposition to digital images.

A genuine image

Emphasizes the authenticity of the image, whether it's a photograph or mental image.

A true representation

Highlights the truthfulness and fidelity of the portrayal.

An accurate depiction

Focuses on the accuracy aspect, omitting the photographic or representational element.

A faithful portrayal

Implies a high degree of accuracy and loyalty to the original subject.

A realistic rendering

Suggests that the depiction is lifelike and believable.

An authentic account

Shifts the focus to a narrative or description that is truthful and reliable.

A vivid impression

Emphasizes the clarity and intensity of the mental image created.

A clear understanding

Moves away from visual representation to focus on comprehension and insight.

The unvarnished truth

Emphasizes the absence of embellishment or distortion in the information presented.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real picture" to describe something authentic, genuine, or an actual photograph. For example, "The documentary provides "a real picture" of life in the city" or "Here's "a real picture" from my vacation".

What's the difference between "a real picture" and "a clear picture"?

"A real picture" emphasizes authenticity or tangibility, often referring to an actual photograph or an accurate depiction. "A clear picture", on the other hand, focuses on understandability or comprehensiveness. So you can say, "I wanted to get "a clear picture" of the company's finances".

What can I say instead of "a real picture" when referring to data?

When referring to data, instead of "a real picture", consider using phrases like "an accurate depiction", "a true representation", or "a comprehensive overview".

Is it always necessary to use "a real picture" literally?

No, "a real picture" can be used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it refers to an actual photograph. Figuratively, it describes an accurate or genuine understanding of something. The context determines the intended meaning.