reality

What really exists or happens, rather than what someone imagines or hopes.

• The story mixes fantasy with reality.
• In reality, the job was much harder.
• She finally accepted reality and changed her plans.

Similar words: the real world, actuality

Opposites: fantasy

Common phrases: in reality, face reality, escape from reality

The true conditions of ordinary life, especially when they are difficult or disappointing.

• The first bill gave him a dose of reality.
• Looking for work brought her back to reality.
• They needed a reality check before starting such an expensive project.

Similar words: the facts, real life

Common phrases: dose of reality, reality check, harsh reality

A thing, event, or situation that actually exists or happens.

• Her dream became a reality.
• Unemployment is a painful reality for many families.
• We cannot ignore the economic realities of running a business.

Similar words: fact, actuality

Common phrases: become a reality, daily reality, economic reality

The world as a particular person experiences or understands it.

• Her reality differs from mine.
• The therapist asked how his childhood shaped his reality.
• Two people can experience very different realities in the same home.

Similar words: perception, experience

Common phrases: personal reality, subjective reality, someone’s own reality