real world

[ree-uhl, reel]

noun

1. the realm of practical or actual experience, as opposed to the abstract, theoretical, or idealized sphere of the classroom, laboratory, etc..

   recent college graduates looking for jobs in the real world of rising unemployment.

Other Word Forms

• real-world adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of real world¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

The L.A. native did the impossible for someone who rarely delves into made-up stories because the real world is fantastical enough: She made me not just read fiction but enjoy it.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

As AI technology trends toward autonomous vehicles and robots, Marcus and others believe the new frontier will be “world models,” or AI with a mental simulation of the real world.

Read more on MarketWatch

But in the real world, it sure doesn’t.

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To create a boat capable of operating in real world conditions is a different challenge.

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To mirror the real world, the Land of Sweets was not spared from an evil nutcracker tyrant.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• here and now