Although Reality and Actuality are two words that are often confused due to their proximity in meaning, there is a subtle difference between them. Reality can be defined as the one that is existent from time immemorial, while Actuality can be defined as the actual conditions or facts. The main difference between reality and actuality can be summarized as reality being an experience, whereas actuality is a perception. This article aims to clarify the difference between the two words while elaborating on each term for a better understanding.
What is Reality?
Reality can be understood as the one that is existent from time immemorial. It is an experience. In other words, reality is what we experience on a regular basis. Sometimes, an object that is unreal may appear to be real, according to the metaphysical experience. For example, a rope may appear like a serpent due to a lack of sufficient light in a room. Such a kind of superimposed reality is based on illusion. Reality is sometimes based on illusory knowledge, where you take something unreal to be real as a kind of momentary experience. Then the truth is established about reality. Finally, the illusory knowledge goes, and the truth gets established. Actuality, on the other hand, is different from reality.
What is Actuality?
Actuality can be explained as the actual conditions or facts. It is a perception. Actuality is what we see on a daily basis and is not based on illusory knowledge. When you say the truth gets established, it is indeed the actuality that gets established. Actuality remains the same forever, and the reality is thus a subset of actuality.
Reality is sometimes described as the totality of all things possessing actuality, existence, or essence. Hence, it can be said that reality is that which exists objectively and in fact. Actuality, on the other hand, is often described as actual conditions or facts. It is, in fact, the state of remaining in the actual condition. The word ‘actuality’ often makes you think of reality in a general sense. This highlights the fact that actuality and reality are two words that are very closely knit with each other.
Key Takeaways:
- Reality is an experience, while actuality is a perception.
- Reality is sometimes based on illusory knowledge, whereas actuality is not.
- Reality is that which exists objectively and in fact, while actuality is the state of remaining in the actual condition.
