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Synonyms

real world

American  
[ree-uhl, reel] / ˈri əl, ril /

noun

  • real worlds
    plural
  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.


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Derived Forms

Inflected Forms

Nouns

Etymology

Origin of real world

First recorded in 1960–65

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.

See Examples For:

TUC leader Paul Nowak said: "I think it will appeal to the prime minister. These are policies that make a difference in the real world and people can see a value in them."

From BBC Sep. 10, 2026

In the real world, the Angels clinched their 11th consecutive losing season before the calendar turned to September.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 31, 2026

The rapidly evolving trend terrorising or tantalising teenagers on TikTok across the UK and Ireland is a reminder that online fear can quickly spill into the real world.

From BBC Aug. 23, 2026

Very little of that will happen in the real world, presumably.

From Salon Aug. 23, 2026

He was a priest who insisted on getting involved in the real world.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

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