Synonyms for

Reality

Verb / ˌri:ˈælʌˌti: / Another word for reality — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The state of things as they actually exist, as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them.

Synonyms & similar words

unreality world realism realness truth fact actuality realness certainty verity genuineness authenticity substantiality existence materiality corporeality tangibility solidity realism pragmatism accuracy precision exactness fidelity

Synonyms by register

Formal

actuality verity truth factuality

Informal

the real deal what's happening the way it is

Literary

essence substance verisimilitude

Antonyms

unreality fantasy illusion fiction imagination dream myth

Common collocations

  • in reality
  • harsh reality
  • face reality
  • the reality of the situation
  • a harsh reality
  • escape reality
  • grounded in reality
  • the reality check

Word family

noun reality
adjective real

Usage note

While 'reality' refers to the state of things as they actually exist, it can sometimes be used loosely. Be mindful of the context to distinguish between objective reality and subjective perception.

Example sentences

  1. The reality of the situation is that we cannot afford a new car right now.
  2. He had to face the reality that he was not going to win the race.
  3. The reality of the storm was worse than we had imagined.
  4. The reality of the situation finally sank in and she burst into tears.
  5. The movie was based on a true story, but the reality was even more incredible.

Quotes

  • Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn't go away. - Philip K. Dick
  • Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one. - Albert Einstein
  • There is no reality except the one contained within us. That is why so many people live such an unreal life. They take the images outside them for reality and never allow the world within to assert itself. - Hermann Hesse

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