reality check
noun
: something that clarifies or serves as a reminder of reality often by correcting a misconception
Examples of reality check in a Sentence
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The Huskies frequently schedule non-conference matchups in the middle of Big East play to serve as a reality check before March Madness arrives, and coach Geno Auriemma said that’s exactly what Lady Vols provided last season.
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Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 31 Jan. 2026
Folks might also get a reality check.
—Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2026
Saturn brings reality checks, boundaries, and long-term commitments, while Neptune dissolves illusions and asks for soul-level honesty.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 29 Jan. 2026
There is, however, a small reality check worth noting here.
—Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 26 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reality check
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Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 31 Jan. 2026
Folks might also get a reality check.
—Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2026
Saturn brings reality checks, boundaries, and long-term commitments, while Neptune dissolves illusions and asks for soul-level honesty.
—Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 29 Jan. 2026
There is, however, a small reality check worth noting here.
—Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 26 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reality check
Cite this Entry
“Reality check.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reality%20check. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.
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