real

[ree-uhl, reel] / ˈri əl, ril /

ADJECTIVE

genuine in existence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absolute actual authentic certain evident for real honest legitimate original palpable physical positive sincere solid substantial substantive true undeniable

STRONG

concrete corporal essential existent firm material present right sound stable

WEAK

bodily bona fide corporeal de facto embodied existing factual heartfelt in the flesh incarnate indubitable intrinsic irrefutable live perceptible rightful sensible tangible unaffected undoubted unfeigned valid veritable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

counterfeit dishonest disputable doubtful dubious false fraudulent hidden indefinite invalid mental obscure questionable spiritual uncertain unclear unreal unreliable unsure untrustworthy vague

STRONG

flexible immaterial intangible unfit unhealthy unimportant unstable

WEAK

fake feigned imaginary untrue

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.

His two main characters, infantrymen named Willie and Joe, were bedraggled, unshaven, dirty, tired to the bone, contemptuous of authority—in other words, mirror images of many of the real soldiers fighting that war.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

She said walking Captain Crumpet was a "real mood booster, I can't help but smile seeing his happy tail as he trots along".

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

And the core insight — that viral footage of lawmakers enjoying themselves while their constituents suffer can generate real pressure on them to do the right thing — is sound.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Many strategists see a snapback rally on signs of real progress in ending the war.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

So much for him being shy and Look Away being real.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

real

Example Sentences

Related Words