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.

American rail companies have developed world-leading technologies that can monitor track conditions in real time, deploy predictive maintenance and optimize network operations with remarkable precision.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

For Mills, the crisis was a lesson in what he sees as a risk inherent in an industry where supply shortages have to be addressed in real time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

He found the role hugely enjoyable, but strategising and giving commands to subordinate players in real time could be "more stressful than real life".

From BBC • Jun. 5, 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

I thought about how he used to come over our house a lot before Mom died and how it had been a while since I had spent any real time with him.

From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen