Definitions

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.

By “touch felt,” Goldberg means that Coppins should get on a plane to Las Vegas and place bets in real life.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

Originally, Vargas had cast a non-actor who had recently become a father and whose real life closely resembled the fiction, but he exited the project after realizing it would take him away from his family.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

One of her clients is in the same position in real life now as the hypothetical Ben and Elaine.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

Lai started following Coleraine in real life too, buying items from the club shop online.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

But now it was time to get back to real life.

From "Keep It Together, Keiko Carter" by Debbi Michiko Florence