Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

for real

PHRASE
in reality; actually
Synonyms
STRONGEST
actually in reality
STRONG
for sure indeed really seriously verily
PHRASE
real; actual
Synonyms
STRONGEST
actual real
STRONG
authentic bona fide honest-to-goodness substantial veritable
PHRASE
genuine; sincere
Synonyms
STRONGEST
genuine sincere
STRONG
earnest on the level unvarnished

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Target’s collection, on the other hand, is one of the most ghastly sartorial abominations ever made, let alone sold for real money.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

That Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei seem to hate each other for real is an additional wrinkle in the companies’ jostling for people’s hearts and minds.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2026

Go to a course and play for real, or just drop a ball on a spot that looks good in the fairway.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

“I’m really excited, and I’m so happy that people are starting to trust me and they’re really coming to me for real estate support.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

The Sorensons were nice, but their visits had been too infrequent and brief for real bonding to occur.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull