Real

Definition

Real means genuine and authentic, not fake or artificial. Actual, by contrast, means existing in fact, often used to contrast with plans or beliefs. Real focuses on authenticity and truthfulness. Actual focuses on concrete existence, especially when expectations were different.

What it describes

A museum receives a painting that looks like a famous artist’s work. Experts study the brushstrokes, the canvas, and the signature. After months of testing, they confirm that the painting was not made by a copyist. It was painted by the artist’s own hand, over a hundred years ago. The museum can now display it with confidence. What kind of painting is this? It is a real painting.

Examples in context

• The bracelet was made of real gold, not cheap metal.
• Her smile was real when she saw her old friend.