real
True, genuine, not merely nominal or apparent.
Word facts
Definition of Real
Genuine, not artificial, counterfeit, or fake.
Example sentences
This is real leather.
These are real tears!
Using Real well
A closer look at how real is used — meaning in plain English, how close synonyms differ, and examples at different levels.
Actually existing or true, not fake, imagined, or copied.
Use 'real' to stress that something genuinely exists or is authentic rather than false or artificial. It works in casual speech, marketing, and factual statements about what is true.
Common in everyday conversation, advertising ('real fruit'), and statements distinguishing fact from fiction.
'Real' (genuine/existing) is often confused with 'really' (an adverb meaning 'very' or 'actually'); write 'a real problem' but 'really difficult,' not 'a really problem.'
- genuine
- slightly more formal; stresses authenticity, often of feelings or materials (genuine leather, genuine concern)
- actual
- emphasizes factual existence over what was assumed or claimed, rather than fake-versus-real
- authentic
- stresses being true to an original or source, common with culture, art, and identity
- true
- focuses on correctness or fidelity to fact, not physical existence
- legitimate
- adds a sense of being valid, lawful, or properly recognized
- fake
- blunt and everyday — deliberately false or imitation
- imaginary
- exists only in the mind, with no deception implied
- artificial
- made by people to resemble something natural, not necessarily deceptive
- fictional
- invented for a story; neutral, not an accusation
- Beginner Is this a real diamond or a fake one?
- In writing Behind the polished slogans lay a real risk that few were willing to name.
- Advanced What began as a rumor took on a life of its own until the panic it caused was entirely real.
'Real' relates to 'reality' — if it belongs to reality, it's real.
Synonyms for Real
Antonyms for Real
Related words
Words closely connected to Real in meaning or use:
Words that rhyme with Real
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does real mean?
True, genuine, not merely nominal or apparent. It is an adjective.
How many syllables does real have?
Real has 1 syllable. It is pronounced as a single beat: real.
What part of speech is real?
Real is used as an adjective. As a verb, it describes an action or state.
What are synonyms for real?
Words with similar meanings to real include substantial, tangible, serious, veridical. The best synonym depends on the exact context you are writing or reading in.
How do you use real in a sentence?
Example: "This is real leather."