abbreviation
IRL
eye-arr-ELL
IRL (abbreviation) means In real life; in the physical world rather than online, in a game, or on social media. Example: “We have been messaging for months but we finally met IRL last weekend.”
abbreviation
1
informal In real life; in the physical world rather than online, in a game, or on social media.
"We have been messaging for months but we finally met IRL last weekend."
"She is much quieter IRL than her posts suggest."
adjective
1
informal Existing or happening in the physical world rather than on the internet.
"I need more IRL friends and less doomscrolling."
"The brand is opening its first IRL store next month."
How to use IRL
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn person, not on the internet.
When to use it
Informal. Fine in texts, social posts and casual work chat; avoid in formal writing, where in person is better.
Memory tip
IRL can sit anywhere a phrase like in person could, and it is written in capitals as often as lower case.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
IRL vs URL
IRL vs AFK
Common pairings
meet IRL
IRL friends
IRL event
see you IRL
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Fill the gap
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We have been messaging for months but we finally met _____ last weekend.
Etymology
An initialism of "in real life", from early internet chat and forum use.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for IRL
See all rhymes for IRL →Frequently asked questions
What does IRL stand for?
It stands for "in real life". People use it to distinguish the physical world from online spaces, games and social media.
What is the difference between IRL and AFK?
IRL contrasts the offline world with the online one, while AFK ("away from keyboard") simply means someone has stepped away from their device for a moment. AFK is about availability; IRL is about which world you are talking about.
Is it rude to use IRL at work?
Not usually in internal chat, where it reads as ordinary shorthand. In client emails, documents or anything formal, write in person instead.
What is the meaning of IRL?
"IRL" (abbreviation) means in real life; in the physical world rather than online, in a game, or on social media.
