reality check

American  

noun

1. a corrective confronting of reality, in order to counteract one's expectations, prejudices, or the like.

---

reality check British  

noun

1. an occasion or opportunity to consider a matter realistically or honestly

---

reality check Idioms  

1. An assessment to determine if one's circumstances or expectations conform to reality, as in Time for a reality check—wasn't this supposed to be a money-making enterprise? [Slang; second half of 1900s]

---

Etymology

Origin of reality check

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

This was a reality check for the brand’s parent company Kering that a turnaround may take longer than hoped.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Heated Rivalry’s progressive, hockey-curious audience gets a reality check from the US Men’s team in Italy.

From Slate • Feb. 26, 2026

Social media analyst Paolo Pescatore said it was a "reality check" for TikTok - and a "warning shot" for every social media platform.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

See also: Intel delivers a reality check after stock surge fueled by ‘vibes and tweets’

From MarketWatch • Jan. 28, 2026

"Of course she does. But she has you around to give her a reality check from time to time."

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda