virtual reality

/ˌvɜːrtʃuəl riˈæləti/

Meaning

Virtual reality is a computer-generated environment that simulates physical presence in a real or imagined world. Users typically wear a specialized headset to immerse themselves in this 3D digital space for gaming, training, or educational purposes.

Examples

  • Medical students are now using virtual reality to practice complex surgeries.

    Medical students are now using virtual reality to practice complex surgeries.

  • Playing that horror game in virtual reality was way too scary for me.

    Playing that horror game in virtual reality was way too scary for me.

  • The museum offered a virtual reality tour of ancient Rome.

    The museum offered a virtual reality tour of ancient Rome.

  • He bought a new virtual reality headset to play the latest flight simulator.

    He bought a new virtual reality headset to play the latest flight simulator.

  • Virtual reality technology has advanced significantly over the last decade.

    Virtual reality technology has advanced significantly over the last decade.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ I entered into a virtual reality.

    ✓ I entered a virtual world. / I experienced virtual reality.

    'Virtual reality' is the technology or concept, not a physical location you enter. You 'experience' virtual reality or enter a 'virtual world'.

  • ✗ The game has very good virtual reality.

    ✓ The game supports virtual reality. / The game has immersive virtual reality graphics.

    'Virtual reality' is not a synonym for graphics or 3D visuals; it refers to the complete immersive technology system.

Related Expressions

augmented realitymixed realityimmersive simulation

Practice

  • Architects use ________ to let clients walk through buildings before they are built.

    💡 An immersive, computer-generated 3D environment.

    Show answer

    virtual reality

  • You need a special headset and motion controllers to experience ________.

    💡 The full term often abbreviated as VR.

    Show answer

    virtual reality