"in practice" vs "in reality"

Question

"in practice" vs "in reality"

Both 'in reality' and 'in practice' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'In reality' is used to refer to the actual situation or state of things, while 'in practice' is used to describe what happens or is done in real situations.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Use 'in practice' to refer to what is done or happens in real situations, as opposed to what is theoretically supposed to happen.

Examples:

The policy sounds good on paper, but in practice, it doesn't work well.
In practice, the rules are often bent to accommodate special cases.
The theory is great, but in practice, it's difficult to implement.

Alternatives:

in reality
in actuality
in real life
in truth
actually

Use 'in reality' to emphasize what is true or actually happening, especially in contrast to what is believed or expected.

Examples:

In reality, the project was much more challenging than we anticipated.
She thought she was prepared, but in reality, she was not.
In reality, the company is facing financial difficulties.

Alternatives:

actually
in fact
in truth
in actuality
in real life

Answer 1

in practice

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe what happens or is done in real situations.

Answer 2

in reality

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to the actual situation or state of things.

"in practice" vs "in reality"

in practice

in reality

Related Comparisons