* "Real" is a root word: It doesn't come from another word with a prefix. It's a core word with its own meaning.
* Prefixes modify meaning: Prefixes like "un-" (unreal), "re-" (realize), and "sur-" (surreal) are added to existing words to change their meaning, not to define the base word itself.
Instead of relying on prefixes, think about the various meanings of "real":
* Authentic: Something genuine and not fake (e.g., real diamonds).
* Actual: Something that exists or is happening in reality (e.g., real-life experiences).
* Concrete: Something tangible and not abstract (e.g., real estate).
To understand the definition of "real" in a specific context, you'll need to consider the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the sentence.