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Definitions

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.

"So we had a really honest conversation, and from that point on Emily became a real support for me."

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Ma suspects the real reason is because “as the monopoly operator of long-distance transmission, State Grid can impose arbitrary fees.”

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

When he ran for prime minister last year, there were real questions about whether he would take to the political side of the job, and he stumbled at times, flubbing his French, for instance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Two other California-bred companies connected to real estate, Realtor.com and Public Storage, announced similar moves to Texas in February.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

“She’s got her a nice pond past the grove,” Glenn said, “caked with slime and full of frogs. They make real good eating. The legs does.”

From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck

Vocabulary lists containing real

"We Real Cool" by Gwendolyn Brooks

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