as it really is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as it really is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the true nature or reality of something, often in contrast to perceptions or assumptions. Example: "She described the situation as it really is, without sugarcoating the challenges we face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ethnic studies is about seeing and loving the U.S. as it really is with all of its flaws and failures.

Huffington Post

It must open its eyes and open up to the world, see it as it really is.

Huffington Post

"It's not life as it really is.

The New York Times

"I'm showing it as it really is".

The New York Times

He talks about life as it really is.

Independent

He presented this issue as it really is.

The New York Times

Guterson's characters live in the city as it really is.

The New York Times - Books

The shows portray human nature as it really is.

The New York Times

"We wanted to present Lit Hum as edgy as it really is," she says.

Columbia University

"Violence in my films is shown as it really is," he once said.

The Guardian - Film

"I see life as it really is," he told me, "not how we wish it were".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as it really is" to provide an unbiased, factual perspective, especially when contrasting it with subjective opinions or idealized views. For instance, when describing historical events or complex social issues, this phrase adds credibility by signaling an intention to present the unvarnished truth.

Common error

Avoid using "as it really is" when expressing personal feelings or subjective judgments. This phrase is best suited for objective descriptions, not opinions. Using it subjectively can create a false sense of authority or detachment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as it really is" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause to provide additional information about the state, manner, or condition of something, emphasizing objectivity. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as it really is" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize authenticity and objectivity. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Academic settings. It serves to present facts without bias, contrasting with subjective views. When writing, use "as it really is" to provide a factual perspective, avoiding its overuse in subjective contexts. Alternatives like "in reality" and "as it truly is" offer similar emphasis. Overall, "as it really is" is a valuable tool for writers seeking to convey truth and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as it truly is

Emphasizes the veracity and authenticity of a situation.

the way it truly is

This alternative adds a slight emphasis on the manner or method of existence.

in its true form

Emphasizes the authentic, unaltered state of something.

in reality

Highlights the actual state of affairs, often contrasting with perception.

the reality of the matter

Shifts the focus to the factual and objective nature of the situation.

in fact

Introduces a statement of truth, often correcting a misconception.

as it actually exists

Focuses on the tangible and verifiable existence of something.

in its genuine state

Stresses the authenticity and lack of artificiality.

in its true colors

Reveals the true nature, often implying a previously hidden aspect.

for what it is

Accepts something without embellishment or illusion.

FAQs

How can I use "as it really is" in a sentence?

Use "as it really is" to describe something objectively, often when contrasting it with perceptions or assumptions. For example: "The report presented the data "as it really is", without any spin."

What can I say instead of "as it really is"?

You can use alternatives like "in reality", "in fact", or "as it truly is" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to use "as it really is"?

No, using "as it really is" isn't always necessary. It's suitable when you want to emphasize objectivity and contrast it with subjective perspectives. In neutral descriptions, it might be redundant.

What's the difference between "as it really is" and "as it seems"?

"As it really is" describes the objective truth, while "as it seems" describes a subjective impression or appearance. They are antonyms.