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
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Yet rather than the Bianconeri becoming Scudetto contenders, they were handed a 4-0 thrashing that served as a reality check for their entire project under Thiago Motta. Adam Digby, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 The creative and idealistic qualities of Pisces come into balance when considering Saturn’s practicality, discipline and general reality checks. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 11 Mar. 2025 A lot of the recent success can be attributed to that reality check in Newark, N.J., on Feb. 15. Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 7 Mar. 2025 The Big Family moved to the Big Apple — and quickly got a reality check about life in the city. Rachel Flynn, People.com, 27 Feb. 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 17 Mar. 2025.

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