is this real

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is this real" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when questioning the authenticity or reality of a situation, object, or experience. Example: "As I looked around the surreal landscape, I couldn't help but ask myself, is this real?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"I was just thinking, how is this real?" the teenager told The Albuquerque Journal this week.

The New York Times

"Oh, is this real?

The New York Times

"At first it was like, 'O.K., is this real?' " Mr. Martinez recalled.

The New York Times

It is this real drama that the additive aesthetic of the DVD commentary supplies.

The New Yorker

It is this real phoniness – as well as Holly's warmheartedness — that the film captures so well.

The Guardian - Film

So there is this real appetite out there for lengthy, pretty intricate drama.

The Guardian

"But here is this real sense that women can't sit on the sidelines.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Is this real?" I just couldn't take it in.

The Guardian

There is this real-world, highly conceptual, highly intellectual subject that people need to know how to do.

The New York Times

Is this real-life?! I'm shocked and utterly over-the-moon about winning this fantastic award!

The Guardian

And a geyser of panic boils up in you is this real?

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is this real" when you genuinely question the authenticity or veracity of something you are experiencing or observing. It's particularly effective in conveying disbelief or surprise.

Common error

While "is this real" is common in everyday speech, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise language like "is this authentic?" or "is this verifiable?" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

Interrogative phrase used to question the veracity or authenticity of a situation, object, or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. The phrase seeks confirmation about whether something perceived is genuine or not.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The query "is this real" is a commonly used phrase to express surprise, doubt, or disbelief. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While often used informally, it's important to consider more formal alternatives like "is this genuine?" in professional settings. The phrase serves as a simple yet effective way to question the authenticity of what one perceives, whether it's a shocking news event or a surreal personal experience. The frequency of its use underscores its relevance in navigating a world where distinguishing truth from falsehood is increasingly crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is this genuine

Replaces "real" with "genuine", focusing on authenticity.

is this authentic

Similar to "genuine", but often used when referring to the origin or source.

is this for real

An idiomatic variation conveying disbelief or surprise.

is this actually happening

Expresses disbelief that something is occurring.

can this be real

Uses a modal verb to express doubt about the reality of a situation.

is this a dream

Questions if the current situation is a figment of imagination.

am I dreaming

Directly asks if the speaker is in a dream state.

is this a joke

Questions the seriousness or truthfulness of a statement or situation.

is this true

A more direct way of asking if something is factual.

is it possible

Focuses on the possibility of something being true or accurate.

FAQs

How can I use "is this real" in a sentence?

You can use "is this real" to express doubt or disbelief about something. For example: "Looking at the unbelievable scenery, I had to ask myself, "is this real"?". It's often used in situations that seem too good or too bad to be true.

What's a more formal way to say "is this real"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is this genuine" or "is this authentic". These options are suitable for professional or academic contexts where precision is important.

When is it appropriate to use "is this real"?

It is appropriate to use "is this real" in informal conversations, personal writing, or situations where you want to convey a sense of surprise or disbelief. However, avoid using it in formal reports or academic papers.

What's the difference between "is this real" and "is this actually happening"?

"Is this real" questions the authenticity or truth of something, while "is this actually happening" expresses disbelief or surprise that something is occurring. The latter focuses on the event itself, rather than its factual basis.