real-life

[ree-uhl-lahyf, reel-] / ˈri əlˌlaɪf, ˈril- /

ADJECTIVE

existing in reality

Synonyms

STRONGEST

actual authentic concrete corporal corporeal honest legitimate physical tangible

STRONG

empirical factual practical realistic

WEAK

non-fictional

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fake fictional

STRONG

delusional ethereal unrealistic

WEAK

untrue

NOUN

life as lived in the real world

Synonyms

STRONGEST

actuality natural world physical world real world

STRONG

reality realness

WEAK

being existence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The scenario we presented her with was based on our undercover reporter's real-life experiences with her own daughter two years ago.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

Such is the case with “Man on Fire,” which isn’t about real-life anything.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

This study suggests that these methods may overlook the risks posed by combined exposures and real-life environmental conditions.

From Science Daily • Apr. 27, 2026

This was the real-life version of a mindless doomscroll, when all of the world’s atrocities barely register.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2026

His hard work on Battle Cry was a brief glimpse into the real-life drama that was happening on the other side of the world.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein