real
1 adj Something that is real actually exists and is not imagined, invented, or theoretical., (Antonym: imaginary)
No, it wasn't a dream. It was real...
2 adj If something is real to someone, they experience it as though it really exists or happens, even though it does not.
Whitechild's life becomes increasingly real to the reader.
3 adj A material or object that is real is natural or functioning, and not artificial or an imitation.
(=genuine)
...the smell of real leather...
4 adj You can use real to describe someone or something that has all the characteristics or qualities that such a person or thing typically has.
(=proper)
...his first real girlfriend...
5 adj You can use real to describe something that is the true or original thing of its kind, in contrast to one that someone wants you to believe is true.
(=true)
This was the real reason for her call...
6 adj You can use real to describe something that is the most important or typical part of a thing.
When he talks, he only gives glimpses of his real self...
7 adj You can use real when you are talking about a situation or feeling to emphasize that it exists and is important or serious., (emphasis)
Global warming is a real problem...
8 adj You can use real to emphasize a quality that is genuine and sincere., (emphasis)
Germany has shown real determination to come to terms with the anti-Semitism of its past.
9 adj You can use real before nouns to emphasize your description of something or someone.
mainly SPOKEN, emphasis `It's a fabulous deal, a real bargain.'
10 adj The real cost or value of something is its cost or value after other amounts have been added or subtracted and when factors such as the level of inflation have been considered.
(=actual, net)
...the real cost of borrowing.
You can also talk about the cost or value of something in real terms., phrase PHR with cl
11 adv You can use real to emphasize an adjective or adverb.
(AM)
INFORMAL, emphasis
(=really)
He is finding prison life `real tough'...
12 If you say that someone does something for real, you mean that they actually do it and do not just pretend to do it.
♦
for real phrase
The sex scenes were just good acting. We didn't do it for real.
13 If you think that someone or something is very surprising, you can ask if they are for real.
(AM)
INFORMAL
♦
for real phrase
Is this guy for real?
14 If you say that a thing or event is the real thing, you mean that it is the thing or event itself, rather than an imitation or copy.
♦
the real thing phrase
The counterfeits sell for about $20 less than the real thing...
