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

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream squad rolled into Indy and handed Caitlin Clark a brutal 108-101 reality check. Alejandro Avila Outkick, FOXNews.com, 19 June 2026 The Federal Reserve gave Wall Street a reality check this week, but the S & P 500 refused to let go of its back-to-back weekly wins. Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 19 June 2026 Waning enthusiasm for SpaceX’s stock this week could serve as a reality check for those buying into Musk’s grandiose visions. Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 18 June 2026 Its gritty military-leaning stories carried a somber post-9/11 feel that seemed appropriate for a fractured world needing a serious reality check. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for reality check

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reality check was in 1960

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Cite this Entry

“Reality check.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reality%20check. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

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