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

However, Mr Beckhoff believes this reality check may be healthy in the longer term.

From BBC

Bishop Rachel told BBC Radio Gloucestershire she did not want the "very, very difficult job" and any Bishop thinking about it should "look long and hard into the mirror and take some reality checks".

From BBC

What they also delivered was a sobering reality check for Jimmy Thelin's men.

From BBC

It was a reality check on another unreal playoff game, one in which the Dodgers seemed to take full control of the Series and the last few days of their season.

From Los Angeles Times

We were soon hit with a reality check.

From Salon