Do we need any article here?

Question

Sentence: Blogs exposing corruption and wrongs are good but the reality is most of the lack truth, credibility and analytical skills. My question: Do we need to put definite article "the" before the word reality? I'm asking this because I've seen on websites that most writers don't use any article before the word reality when they use it "after" the conjuction "but". Thanks and regards

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

RazerSentence: Blogs exposing corruption and wrongs are good but the reality is that most of them lack truth, credibility, and analytical skills.

the reality is perfectly fine. It's the reality (the truth) about blogs. It is thus a specific reality. the reality (about something) is like the truth (about something).

reality (without the) is everything that is real -- a much more general concept. reality is like the real world.
____________

Examples:

Steve thinks he's invincible, but reality will intervene one of these days! (no the)
(The real world (in general, in its entirety) is meant.)

Some people think that it's bad for their children to watch TV, but the reality is that many TV programs are very educational for children. (with the)
(The specific reality -- the truth -- about watching TV is meant.)

CJ

McNabb · Answer

This is an issue of whether you mean "reality" in general, or a particular "reality."

In most cases, when speaking of "reality" in general, the word is personified:

"Some say that unicorns exist, but reality tells us differently."

However, when referring to a particular "reality" an article is necessary to imply restricted meaning:

"Hermione may think she's a wizard, but the reality is she's a witch."

Joe2012 · Answer

Thanks a lot Califjim

. Now I understand the difference. It really helped. McNabb, your comment was also helpful. Thanks for it

.

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