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.
This was just a nice comeuppance for a person who needs a little reality check. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 3 Oct. 2025 Such work would be an important reality check as society grapples with this kind of emerging threat from AI, says Casadevall, but would be tricky to do, as it might be precluded by international treaties prohibiting the development of biological weapons. Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR, 2 Oct. 2025 What all of this also means for Rashada, the former 4-star prep star from the Bay Area, is a reality check. Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2025 Year-end predictions get all the attention, but real innovation demands a mid-year reality check. Freddy Kuo, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025 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 20 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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