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

Here's a reality check The lore of the wilderness has seeped into many different facets of modern life. — Tim MacWelch, Outdoor Life, 15 July 2026

This is the day to do a reality check and think about the direction you’re headed. — Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 14 July 2026

This will be a reality check after all the hype surrounding this hugely gifted but still very raw young batter. — Paul Newman, New York Times, 12 July 2026

Even the most bullish of investors might be feeling a reality check since SpaceX launched. — Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reality check

• aztec
• breakneck
• codec
• exec
• mixtec
• paycheck
• pinchbeck
• recheck
• redneck
• toltec
• beck
• breck