dose of reality

USAGE SUMMARY

"dose of reality" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something that is real and needs to be accepted or acknowledged, especially when it is uncomfortable or difficult. For example: "It was hard to accept, but it was time for a dose of reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Now for a dose of reality.

The New York Times

Virginia Tech experienced a dose of reality.

The New York Times - Sports

So she's a good dose of reality.

University of California, Berkeley

That dose of reality may be healthy.

The New York Times - Tech

A dose of reality is in order.

The New York Times

He was her dose of reality.

The New York Times - Books

But it is time for a dose of reality.

The New York Times

Yael Hedaya brought a dose of reality to the proceedings.

The New Yorker

But he adds his own dimension, a dose of reality.

The New York Times - Arts

New York offered a welcome if harsh dose of reality.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Will they offer a sobering dose-of-reality therapy for the reality TV president?

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dose of reality" when you want to introduce an element of truth, especially if it's something people might be avoiding or misunderstanding.

Common error

Avoid using "dose of reality" in contexts where the revelation is positive or welcome. The phrase generally carries a connotation of something difficult to accept or a disillusionment of prior beliefs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dose of reality" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It introduces a concept or situation that brings someone face-to-face with the truth, often abruptly or unexpectedly. As Ludwig explains, it refers to accepting reality, even if uncomfortable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dose of reality" is a commonly used phrase to describe the often-unpleasant experience of facing the truth. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. As the analysis reveals, its purpose is to correct misconceptions or provide a more realistic outlook, frequently appearing in news and media contexts. While adaptable, it's best employed when communicating necessary, but potentially difficult, truths to avoid misuse in inappropriate positive scenarios. Related phrases like "reality check" or "wake-up call" can offer similar sentiments with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reality check

A shorter, more direct way to call attention to the actual facts of a situation.

wake-up call

Emphasizes the sudden and often jarring realization of a truth or danger.

hard truth

Focuses on the unpleasant or difficult nature of the reality being presented.

unvarnished truth

Highlights the lack of embellishment or sugarcoating in the presentation of reality.

cold facts

Stresses the unemotional and sometimes harsh nature of the reality.

sobering realization

Highlights the serious and often sobering effect of understanding the true situation.

grim reality

Emphasizes the bleak or negative aspects of the true situation.

harsh reality

Highlights the difficult and unpleasant aspects of the situation.

actual situation

A more neutral alternative focusing on the facts without emotional connotations.

the facts of the matter

Emphasizes objectivity and a focus on concrete details.

FAQs

How can I use "dose of reality" in a sentence?

You can use "dose of reality" to indicate the introduction of factual information, especially when it contradicts a previously held belief or expectation. For instance, "The budget cuts were a harsh "dose of reality" for the department."

What's a good alternative to "dose of reality"?

Alternatives include "reality check", "wake-up call", or "hard truth", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "dose of reality" formal or informal?

"Dose of reality" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's more common in news and media than in strict academic writing. Its appropriateness depends on the surrounding text and the intended audience.

What does "dose of reality" imply?

"Dose of reality" implies that someone is being confronted with facts that might be unpleasant or that shatter illusions. It suggests a necessary but potentially difficult awakening to the true state of affairs.