what reality is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what reality is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when questioning the validity or context of a statement or situation, often implying skepticism or confusion. Example: "You say you saw a unicorn in the park? What reality is that?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

What reality was that?

Vice

"It is experiment that decides what reality is," he says.

Science Magazine

It's not great for spectators, but the reality is that is what it's all about at Test level," said Jenkins.

BBC

"It doesn't matter how you win, if its 3-0, it's not great for spectators but the reality is that is what its all about at Test level.

BBC

What happened in the story and what happens in reality is that the bubble caused rise in bank lending to invest in the bubble.

BBC

"So much of politics in New Jersey is driven by who can deliver what, and the reality is that a freshman senator can actually deliver very little, particularly in the short term," Ms. Harrison said.

The New York Times

What happened in reality is that the gross margin was even higher than that at 39.4percentt.

TechCrunch

But we also said, "You know, what if the reality is that we were over-stored 10 years ago?" You know, 10 years ago, there was talk in America that we're over-stored.

Forbes

What is the reality is that of the seventeen First Nations communities across the line, most of them haven't even heard about it.

Vice

I'm amazed that people actually think that's what happens!" The reality is that it's actually very difficult to get sectioned, and to stay sectioned.

Vice

What this means in reality is that the body is collapsing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what reality is that" to express skepticism or seek clarification when someone presents a situation you find questionable or difficult to believe. This challenges the basis or validity of their claim.

Common error

Avoid using "what reality is that" in contexts where genuine understanding is sought. This phrase carries a tone of skepticism, so it's better to rephrase if you want to politely inquire about someone's viewpoint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what reality is that" functions as an interrogative expression used to challenge or question a statement or situation presented as fact. It casts doubt on the validity or accuracy of the perceived reality. Ludwig AI confirms this usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what reality is that" serves as a skeptical inquiry, questioning the validity or basis of a presented reality. According to Ludwig, the expression is grammatically sound but relatively uncommon. It's primary function is to challenge claims or viewpoints, often carrying a tone of disbelief. While grammatically correct, it is more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts, and users should be mindful of its potentially confrontational tone, opting for softer inquiries when seeking genuine understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What kind of reality are we talking about?

Asks for clarification on the specific context or understanding of 'reality' being discussed.

What version of reality is that?

Suggests that there might be multiple interpretations of reality, questioning which one is being referred to.

What world are you living in?

Implies disbelief or disagreement with the speaker's perspective, suggesting it's detached from common experience.

What are you talking about?

A direct question expressing confusion or disagreement with what the speaker is saying.

What is the basis for that reality?

Seeks the foundation or justification for the presented version of reality.

What is the nature of that reality?

Asks for more details and specifications about the reality being discussed.

What evidence supports that reality?

Focuses on the need for proof or validation of the claimed reality.

What is the context for that reality?

Emphasizes the need to understand the surrounding circumstances that shape the interpretation of reality.

How can that be considered reality?

Directly challenges the classification of something as 'reality'.

Is that really the case?

Expresses doubt about the truthfulness or accuracy of a statement.

FAQs

How can I use "what reality is that" in a sentence?

You can use "what reality is that" to express disbelief or question the validity of a statement. For example, if someone claims to have seen a ghost, you might respond, "You saw a ghost? "What reality is that"?"

What's a less confrontational way to ask about someone's perception of reality?

Instead of saying "what reality is that", you could ask, "How do you see it?" or "Can you explain your perspective further?" This approach encourages dialogue rather than implying disbelief.

Is "what reality is that" always sarcastic?

While "what reality is that" often carries a sarcastic tone, it can also be used to genuinely express confusion or seek clarification. The context and your tone of voice will determine the perceived intent.

What can I say instead of "what reality is that" if I want to be polite?

Consider alternatives like "what version of reality is that?" or "what kind of reality are we talking about?" These options are less direct and invite further discussion.