adj

virtual

VURT-shoorl

adj

Existing in effect, though not officially or in a strict physical sense.

"After the scandal, he became a virtual prisoner in his own home."

"The two companies operate as a virtual monopoly in the region."

Existing or conducted through a computer or online rather than in person.

"The team held a virtual meeting instead of flying everyone in."

"She built a whole virtual world for the game using 3D modeling software."

How to Use Virtual

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither "practically true, even if not officially so" or "existing online/on a computer rather than physically."

Common pairings

virtual reality a virtual meeting a virtual assistant

virtuals plural

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Can you complete this real example?

After the scandal, he became a _____ prisoner in his own home.

From Medieval Latin virtualis, "having power or effect," from Latin virtus ("power, virtue").

cyberreal

dual equal usual sexual manual annual actual ritual mutual casual visual unusual

cyberreal