reality check

noun

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

reality check

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of reality check¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

She's absolutely someone I'd marry, and I just needed a big reality check to grow up and take it seriously.

From Washington Post

This year’s American showcase at the Venice architecture biennial offers a reality check to United States’ bombastic self-image.

From Quartz

We begin with a reality check on American history from senior correspondent Janell Ross, who argues that the country is stuck in a pattern of talking about racial inequality but doing little to solve it.

From Time

He did caution, though, that our expectations of what polling can — and can’t — do probably need a reality check.

From FiveThirtyEight

Whether it’s a solution or a reality check, I’m open to any suggestions.

From Washington Post

Reality check: Perfect is never on the menu, especially in Albany.

From The Daily Beast

Klopfer alleged in an interview with RH Reality Check that these anti-abortion groups have doctored his forms.

From The Daily Beast

Still, the oppression of Christians abroad could be a much-needed reality check for those complaining about the War on Christmas.

From The Daily Beast

Reality Check No. 1: Immigration reform is only dead if the House of Representatives—specifically Speaker Boehner—decides it is.

From The Daily Beast

Progressives who hope, in 2014, to regulate their way out of this problem need a reality check.

From The Daily Beast