lack of reality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of reality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, idea, or perception that is disconnected from actual facts or truth. Example: "The film's portrayal of life in the city was criticized for its lack of reality, as it ignored the struggles faced by many residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He couldn't bear the over-acting, the painted people, the lack of reality.

The Guardian - Books

While many designers this season are into parkas (or at least a more casual attitude), Ms. Karan is pushing seduction — and, frankly, a lack of reality.

The New York Times

David Brooks gets it right in his column about the Alito hearings and the Democrats' complete lack of reality concerning what the constituents of that once great political party really want.

The New York Times

Mulligan, who's said in the past that Ribblestrop is "not Hogwarts – any elf would be stamped on and barbecued very quickly", thinks the slap-bang-wallop violence of his boarding school is, perhaps, "some kind of response to the lack of reality in Enid Blyton".

The Guardian

The network's lack of reality stalwarts became particularly visible and damaging during last season's writers' strike.

Forbes

Even if it's only a sort of technical quibble, it indicates a serious lack of reality checking on Apple's part.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Some of my clients still think they are Napoleon," said another project leader to illustrate that clients may lack sense of reality.

BMC Health Services Research

"But I also think it shows a lack of understanding reality.

The New York Times

The lack of a reality check which this causes has led theorists so far into the deep end of mathematical speculation that many have started to question if what they are doing is still physics.In the past ten years, this has begun to change.

The Economist

A key reason behind the confusion is that lack of perspective; reality needs a new lens.

TechCrunch

Hence for the Sarvāstivādin, conventional truth (samvṛtisatya), composite-existence (avayavi-dravya / rdzas grub), and the lack of intrinsic reality (niḥsvabhāva) are all equivalents.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When critiquing a piece of fiction, use "lack of reality" to pinpoint specific elements that detract from believability, such as implausible character actions or contrived plot devices.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of reality" when you actually mean surrealism. Surrealism is an intentional artistic technique that blends reality with the unreal; "lack of reality" typically implies an unintentional or undesirable departure from what is real or believable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of reality" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the absence of factual accuracy or realism in a particular context. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status, supporting its varied application across different domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of reality" is a grammatically sound and frequently utilized noun phrase. Ludwig confirms it, and it effectively conveys the absence of realism or a disconnect from verifiable facts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to critique or assess the realism of a situation. While generally neutral, choosing alternative phrases like "absence of realism" or "divorced from reality" may enhance clarity or nuance in particular writing scenarios. Ensure you are discussing an absence of realism and not confusing the expression with surrealism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divorced from reality

Emphasizes a complete separation from factual circumstances, often suggesting delusion or fantasy.

absence of realism

Highlights the absence of realistic elements in a situation or depiction, focusing on the shortfall of genuine qualities.

devoid of truth

Indicates a complete absence of factual accuracy or honesty.

detached from facts

Stresses the separation from verifiable information and evidence.

fantasy-based thinking

Highlights a style of thought that is imaginative and unrealistic.

out of touch with reality

Emphasizes a failure to understand current events or practical aspects of life.

unrealistic expectations

Focuses on anticipating outcomes that do not align with what is likely or possible.

lack of verisimilitude

Stresses the absence of an appearance of being true or real.

disconnected from actuality

Indicates a separation from things as they actually exist.

illusionary perception

Focuses on the false impression of reality.

FAQs

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

You can use "lack of reality" to describe situations, ideas, or portrayals that are disconnected from actual facts or truth. For example, "The politician's promises showed a complete "lack of reality" when considering the current economic climate."

What's a more formal way to say "lack of reality"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "absence of realism" or "deficiency in authenticity". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with increased sophistication.

Is it appropriate to use "lack of reality" in academic writing?

Yes, "lack of reality" is appropriate for academic writing when discussing the absence of realism or a connection to verifiable facts. However, ensure the context warrants its use and is not overly informal. Alternatives like "absence of realism" may be preferred in some disciplines.

What are some phrases similar to "lack of reality" that emphasize a detachment from practical considerations?

Phrases like "divorced from reality" or "out of touch with reality" emphasize a disconnection from practical considerations. Each carries its own connotation, so choose the most appropriate for your specific context.