reality

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'reality' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the state of things as they actually exist, rather than as they may appear or might be imagined. For example, "She was beginning to realize the harsh reality of her situation".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The reality was different.

The Guardian

That is the reality.

The New York Times

But the reality is different.

The Guardian

In reality, the effect on MPs' seats is more complex to measure as voters are not spread evenly across constituencies: some areas within may heavily favour one party, others its main rival.

The Guardian

"But the electoral reality is that we will not win outright Conservative majorities until we start attracting more of the ethnic vote".

The Guardian

I think over time it will be a regressive move because we have to appeal to all of Britain, not just because it's morally the right thing to do … but because it is an electoral reality.

The Guardian

That is a reality".

The New York Times

The reality is more complicated.

The Economist

Because the rhetoric in no way reflected the reality of two and a half years of compromise.

The Guardian - Opinion

The material effect of being so isolated is that information is reordered around the reality they can't escape: everybody has to care what the Hamas military guy says; his speech is analysed late into the night by groups huddled over cigarettes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Related: Spy agencies fund climate research in hunt for weather weapon, scientist fears Like so many military experiments, these trials failed but cloud seeding became a reality in 1967/8 when the US's Operation Popeye increased rainfall by an estimated 30% over parts of Vietnam in an attempt to reduce the movement of soldiers and resources into South Vietnam.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reality" to ground discussions in provable or observable facts, strengthening your argument's credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "reality" when you actually mean someone's subjective experience or interpretation of events. "Reality" refers to the objective state of things, while perception is how individuals understand it.

Linguistic Context

The noun "reality" primarily functions as a descriptor of the state of being real or actual. It often serves to emphasize the factual nature of a situation, contrasting it with perceptions, illusions, or hopes. Ludwig AI indicates that the word is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun "reality" is a versatile and commonly used term for describing the state of being real or actual. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability in written English. It frequently appears in news and media contexts, emphasizing the factual nature of events and situations. When using "reality", ensure that you're referring to objective facts rather than subjective perceptions, and consider alternatives like "actuality" or "truth" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Always aim to use it when the situation you are trying to describe needs to be perceived as something truthful and concrete.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

actuality

Focuses on the state of being real or true.

real world

Emphasizes the practical and tangible aspects of existence.

the truth of the matter

Highlights the factual and verifiable nature of a situation.

the state of affairs

Refers to the current condition or situation.

the facts of life

Emphasizes the fundamental and often unpleasant aspects of existence.

the way things are

Offers a simple and direct description of the existing situation.

the real situation

Highlights the genuine circumstances, often in contrast to perceptions.

what is actually happening

Focuses on the events that are truly taking place.

hard facts

Stresses the undeniable and concrete nature of information.

undeniable truth

Emphasizes the irrefutable and certain nature of a fact.

FAQs

How can I use "reality" in a sentence?

You can use "reality" to refer to the state of being actual or real. For example, "The harsh reality of the situation was difficult to accept."

What's a good alternative to the word "reality"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "actuality", "real world", or "truth".

Is it correct to say "the reality is that"?

Yes, "the reality is that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a factual statement or situation.

What is the difference between "reality" and "realism"?

"Reality" refers to the state of being real, while "realism" is a style or movement that aims to depict "reality" accurately, often in art or literature.