real-life

[ree-uhl-lahyf, reel-]

adjective

1. existing or happening in reality.

   real-life drama.

real life

noun

1. 1. actual human life, as lived by real people, esp contrasted with the lives of fictional or fantasy characters

      miracles don't happen in real life

   2. ( as modifier )

      a real-life mystery

Word History and Origins

Origin of real-life¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

That the real-life Kerr would have such an visceral response to watching it was validating for the 39-year-old Safdie, who wrote, directed and edited the movie and is also a producer on the project, as is Johnson.

From Los Angeles Times

Before the screening, Safdie, Johnson and Blunt, along with the real-life Kerr and other members of the cast, took to the stage to introduce the film at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater.

From Los Angeles Times

In his first feature as a solo director, Benny Safdie leads Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt through the real-life story of early MMA champion fighter Mark Kerr.

From Los Angeles Times

We are warned we will have to leave the operations room if there is a real-life incident.

From BBC

Like his real-life counterpart, Jay Kelly is the name on everyone’s mind, the most famous person in any room.

From Salon

Related Words

• actual 
• authentic 
• concrete 
• corporal 
• corporeal 
• honest 
• legitimate 
• physical 
• tangible