as in very
happening in the real world rather than in a story
real-life problems a real-life drama
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of real-life
Completing the hat trick in pitiful style, Taking on the World was shot on a shoestring budget, helmed by the man behind Highlander III, and forced to rely on stock footage of real-life footballers.
—
Jon O'Brien,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
Fast says that, beyond casting, the actors were able to create real-life bonds to bring into the film.
—
William Earl,
Variety,
26 June 2026
This not only deepens their relationship with their loyal fans but also creates genuine, real-life content.
—
Catherine Erdly,
Forbes.com,
26 June 2026
The Pointer Sisters also kept it in the family — the iconic trio was made up of real-life sisters Anita, Bonnie and June Pointer.
—
Alexandra Schonfeld,
PEOPLE,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for real-life
Jon O'Brien,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
Fast says that, beyond casting, the actors were able to create real-life bonds to bring into the film.
—
William Earl,
Variety,
26 June 2026
This not only deepens their relationship with their loyal fans but also creates genuine, real-life content.
—
Catherine Erdly,
Forbes.com,
26 June 2026
The Pointer Sisters also kept it in the family — the iconic trio was made up of real-life sisters Anita, Bonnie and June Pointer.
—
Alexandra Schonfeld,
PEOPLE,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for real-life
Recent Examples of Synonyms for real-life
Adjective
-
Meneghetti invites guests to slow down, relax, be present in their surroundings, and experience something genuine and understated rather than staged—the very essence of Istria.
-
Becoming synonymous with the very idea of the dictionary wasn’t by any means a given for Webster.
Adjective
-
Everything from the casting (male dancers, internet faves, and very few actual models) to the scenery (a 191-year-old venue with plenty of stained glass) to the ambiance (candlelit, with lots of bows and florals) embodied the brand's quintessential mix of romance, community, and nostalgia.
-
The idea that all the employees would gear up for a really, really busy night, only to be hit with no-shows and cancellations due to inclement weather, is probably something that happens in actual eateries all the time.
Adjective
-
But experts and users warn that technology risks eroding authenticity and chemistry at the heart of real-world relationships.
-
These crucial soft skills, highly valued by employers, are cultivated through real-world experience rather than academic transcripts.
Adjective
-
But the real irony is that the British have teamed up with the Indigenous Seneca population, who loathe the French.
-
All her friends and family have tried to convince her this is not a real situation and she is being scammed.
Adjective
-
That deficit set off a litany of Boise chances in the final 10 minutes.
-
That momentous draw came in the final group-stage game of the prestigious tournament.
Adjective
-
His authentic character and fearlessness in the face of adversity will live on forever through this distinguished award.
-
This authentic modeling is crucial for daughters to develop a healthy body image and break cycles of self-criticism.
Adjective
-
Since 2020, more than 20 homes there have traded for at least $20 million, helping transform the once under-the-radar community into a bona fide billionaire hot spot.
-
By the 20th century, going to summer camp was a bona fide movement in the United States, according to Leslie Paris, a history professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.
Cite this Entry
“Real-life.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/real-life. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
