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 Words From

• real-world adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of real world¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Robert Shea, a former top official in the George W. Bush administration, explained the real world impact.

From Los Angeles Times

And in the real world, this can be profound.

From Science Daily

It's reminiscent of Elon Musk's Texas compound, where he can play out his fantasies of being a feudal king behind walls that shield him from the scary real world.

From Salon

Audiard plays with cinematic form by often plucking his characters from the real world in the middle of a song.

From Los Angeles Times

Some of Trump’s promises aren’t likely to survive the real world.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• here and now