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.

This is something more extreme: the construction of an entirely separate reality in real time, one that rejects the evidence of the senses.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Satellite, sensors and other technology not existent in 2020 are tracking inventories in real time and also keeping tabs on tanker movements and flows.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

“We measure fertility rates in real time, but women live their reproductive lives across decades,” says Bailey.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

First, the personal saving rate is notorious for being revised up because the government tends to undercount incomes in real time...

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

It’s such a short ride that there’s no real time for conversation, but when Peeta takes my hand, I don’t pull it away.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins