Virtual
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsExisting in essence or effect, but not in actual fact or form.
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəl/
Existing or resulting in essence or effect though not in actual fact, form, or name
We held a virtual meeting online.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game on your computer. You see things, and it feels like you're really there, even though it's just a collection of ones and zeros! That's the idea of 'virtual' - it seems real, but it's not actually happening in the physical world. Like, having a virtual pet is a pet you see on your phone, not a real animal.
👶 For kids: When something is 'virtual', it's like it's real, but it's not actually there. Like a game on a tablet!
More Examples
The museum offers a virtual tour of its exhibits.
He created a virtual character for the game.
How It's Used
"Virtual reality allows users to experience simulated environments."
"The company held a virtual conference for its employees."
"I have a virtual pet online."
Being almost, but not exactly, something; closely resembling something.
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəl/
Almost or very nearly as described, but not completely or exactly so.
The storm caused a virtual standstill in traffic.
💡 Simply: Imagine you are playing a game and almost win, but get defeated at the last minute! In this case, you had a 'virtual' win. It was like a win, but not quite.
👶 For kids: When something is 'virtual', it's almost real, but not quite!
More Examples
The city was in a virtual state of panic after the incident.
The new technology offered a virtual solution to the problem.
How It's Used
"The company experienced a virtual shutdown due to a cyber attack."
"He has a virtual monopoly on the local market."
Synonyms
Apparent
Digital
Quasi
Simulated
Theoretical
Almost
Approximate
Near
Practical
Idioms & expressions
virtual reality
Computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way by a person using special electronic equipment.
"Virtual reality is used in training simulations for pilots."
virtual assistant
A person who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from a remote location.
"The company hired a virtual assistant to manage their social media accounts."
From Late Latin *virtualis* meaning 'having the power or effect, but not the form, of something'. It derives from Latin *virtus* meaning 'virtue, excellence, power'.
The word 'virtual' began appearing in scientific and philosophical contexts in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Memory tip
Think of a 'virtual' reality, it *feels* real, but it's not physically present.