the real thing

noun

: something that is genuine and not a copy or imitation : something that is truly valuable or important
The diamond turned out to be the real thing.
You've done very well in your training. Let's just hope you're ready for the real thing.

Examples of the real thing in a Sentence

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Unlike the real thing, electric fireplaces emit no smoke and leave no messy ashes after use. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 6 Nov. 2026 The Geyser quarter-zip fleece adds another cozy layer, taking a cue from the park's otherworldly geothermal landscape, with vibrant prints that are practically as memorable as the real thing. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Nov. 2026 Now children have balance bikes, which are two-wheelers without pedals—an arrangement that supposedly makes for an easier transition to riding the real thing. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 2 Nov. 2026 Its polished design resembled a legitimate event invitation, showing how easily someone could mistake a fraudulent message for the real thing. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 1 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for the real thing

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Cite this Entry

“The real thing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20real%20thing. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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