as things really are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as things really are" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the true nature of a situation or reality, often in contrast to perceptions or assumptions. Example: "It's important to understand the situation as things really are, rather than how we wish them to be."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

In contrast to the conventional, the ultimate truth is understood as the way things really are, independent of the concepts and conventions with which ordinary persons engage.

SEP

On the contrary, Nāgārjuna argues, to assert that the things are empty of any intrinsic reality is to explain the way things really are as causally conditioned phenomena (pratītyasamputpaṅhā).

SEP

It only needed to be clipping as it was given out, but things really are going Brad Haddin's way these days.

The Guardian - Sport

I wanted to step into that image and see if things really were as cosy and cool as they looked on Instagram, and combine it with some snowboarding.

The Guardian - Travel

At less than 30 cents per gigabtye – and as slim as this thing really is – it's an excellent replacement for small albiet lower-density flash media.

TechCrunch

The various kinds of epistemological skepticism can be differentiated in terms of the areas in which doubts are raised that is, whether the doubts are directed toward reason, toward the senses, or toward knowledge of "things-in-themselves" (things as they really are, rather than as they appear to human observers).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Wisdom evolves from seeing things as they really are and patience comes from accepting things as they are.

Huffington Post

"The beauty of being able to fly is to see things from a new perspective -- to see things as they really are".

Huffington Post

Finally you see things as they really are, and that is the most horrible thing in the world".

The New York Times - Food

Finally, you see things as they really are and that is the most horrible thing in the world!" According to the books, absinthe is a pernicious green liquor that is distilled from wormwood, tastes like licorice and is 160 proof.

The New York Times

Finally, you see things as they really are, and that is the most horrible thing in the world".

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context provides a clear contrast between perception and reality when using this phrase to maximize its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "as things really are" in overly casual conversations; it can sound overly formal or philosophical when a simpler expression would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as things really are" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by describing the manner in which something is perceived or understood. It often introduces a clause that provides an objective or factual perspective, contrasting with subjective views. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as things really are" serves as a powerful tool for advocating objectivity and clear-sightedness. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound. Used across various domains like news, science, and philosophy, it encourages a deeper, unbiased understanding of situations. When writing, leverage this phrase to highlight the contrast between subjective perception and objective reality. Though versatile, remember to use it sparingly in informal contexts to maintain its impact. By considering related phrases like "as they truly are" and avoiding overuse, you can effectively communicate the importance of seeing the world "as things really are".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they truly are

Focuses on the genuine or authentic state of something, emphasizing truth.

in reality

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

as they exist

Emphasizes the current and factual existence of something.

in their true form

Highlights the undisguised or unaltered condition.

objectively speaking

Indicates an unbiased and factual perspective.

from an unbiased perspective

Emphasizes the lack of prejudice in viewing a situation.

without distortion

Focuses on the absence of misrepresentation or alteration.

in plain terms

Highlights direct and uncomplicated communication of facts.

the unvarnished truth

Stresses the raw and unfiltered reality.

the actual state of affairs

Emphasizes the factual circumstances of a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "as things really are" in a sentence?

This phrase is typically used to emphasize objective reality. For example, "It's important to see the situation "as things really are", not as we wish it to be."

What phrases are similar to "as things really are"?

Similar phrases include "as they truly are", "in reality", or "objectively speaking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "as things really are" formal or informal?

The phrase "as things really are" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal, suitable for discussions where objectivity is important, but it can be adapted based on context.

What's the difference between "as things appear" and "as things really are"?

"As things appear" refers to a superficial or initial understanding, while "as things really are" points to a deeper, more accurate comprehension of the situation. The latter implies uncovering the true nature of something.