in the real sense

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the real sense" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something is true in a literal or practical sense. For example, "He isn't really a doctor in the real sense - he only has a degree in biology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

That in the real sense of sports is its value.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's theatrical in the real sense," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

She just commanded respect in the real sense.

The Guardian - Film

It's inspiring in the real sense of the word, blows air into my work.

The New York Times - Arts

A holiday used to mean getting away from it all – in the real sense.

Independent

A cookbook in the real sense, one that deserves to be well-thumbed and kitchen-stained.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Follow Drew Brown on Thettereal

Vice

"Not in the gritty, real sense but in the passionate, romantic, ethereal, maternal sense.

The New York Times - Arts

Elsewhere, Mr Lee has described the programme as a "provocation to our viewers in the very real sense of the word".Hold on a moment.

The Economist

Not in the real real sense.

The New Yorker

It's breaking bread in the most real sense.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the real sense" to clarify that you're referring to the most accurate, literal, or practical understanding of a concept. This can help avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "in the real sense" when the meaning is already clear from the context. Redundancy can weaken your writing and make it sound less sophisticated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the real sense" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to add specificity and emphasis. It clarifies that something is being described in its most genuine, practical, or literal form. Ludwig's examples showcase this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the real sense" is a versatile tool for adding emphasis and clarity to your writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used to ensure readers understand the most accurate or practical meaning of a concept. While suitable for a range of contexts, from news articles to scientific papers, it's essential to avoid redundancy by using it only when clarification is truly needed. Consider alternatives like "in the truest meaning" or "in the literal sense" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the truest meaning

Focuses on the most accurate or genuine interpretation.

in the literal sense

Highlights a strict, word-for-word interpretation.

in a practical way

Emphasizes the pragmatic application or relevance.

in actual fact

Underscores the reality or truth of a situation.

by definition

Stresses that something is inherently true based on its definition.

strictly speaking

Indicates precision and adherence to rules or facts.

at its core

Highlights the fundamental or essential nature of something.

in essence

Points to the most important or basic element.

for all intents and purposes

Suggests that something should be regarded as true in a particular context.

when all is said and done

Indicates a final and accurate assessment after considering all factors.

FAQs

How can I use "in the real sense" in a sentence?

Use "in the real sense" to emphasize the genuine or literal meaning of something, such as, "He is not a leader "in the real sense" if he doesn't inspire his team."

What's the difference between "in the real sense" and "literally"?

"In the real sense" emphasizes a genuine or practical understanding, while "literally" indicates that something is exactly as stated and not figurative. However, literally is misused often.

What can I say instead of "in the real sense"?

Alternatives include "in the truest meaning", "in the literal sense", or "in a practical way", depending on the intended nuance.

Is it ever incorrect to use "in the real sense"?

It may be incorrect if the context already makes the meaning obvious, leading to redundancy. Also, ensure it aligns with your intended nuance; a more precise alternative may be suitable.