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Definitions

real world

[ree-uhl, reel] / ˈri əl, ril /
NOUN
things as they are
Synonyms
STRONGEST
here and now
WEAK
actuality natural world physical world world of nature

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.

That worked for the research, but it is not ideal for real world use because acetone is flammable and has a strong odor.

From Science Daily • May 9, 2026

His experience was exacerbated by things happening in the real world, which convinced him he was being surveilled.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

Pest control requires specialized expertise and non-repetitive work that’s done in the real world.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 28, 2026

Robert Sternberg, a professor of psychology at Cornell University, told AFP that IQ tests get "glorified" but are only "moderately" useful in predicting real world outcomes.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

The real world was at their doorstep, and it was dangerously close to barging in.

From "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson