real time

[ree-uhl, reel] / ˈri əl, ril /

NOUN

actual time for action or event

Synonyms

WEAK

actual time problem-solving time

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.

We just don’t have the tools to address this in real time, the way we all experience the crisis.

From Slate • Apr. 15, 2026

Drivers will then be able to verify the Waymo-identified pothole in real time.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

This go-round, mission photographs, including those from the far side of the moon, came in near real time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026

For audiences long used to polished TV comedy, the impact felt electric: humour that was not defined by censors but was messy, daring and alive in real time.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

The new equipment also included the most sophisticated metal detectors ever invented and waterproofed iPads that enabled the team’s divers to map the location of each new artifact that was discovered in real time.

From "Shipwrecked!" by Martin W. Sandler