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.

Back in 2005, when Roberts rhapsodized about Indiana farmland and an endless horizon punctuated only by silos and barns, he was substituting a humble, real-life Midwest upbringing for his own.

From Slate • May 7, 2026

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

The brothers in podcasting, partners in Por Osos Vodka and real-life besties are back to burn calories the old-fashioned way.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

All I really wanted was some time with Zach and to expand my world by visiting the office of a real-life lawyer.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd