for free

for free, for real

These two phrases, originally Americanisms, are regularly used informally in BrE, often in a jocular manner in newspaper articles:

• Two pilots have in fact done the job ‘for real’ —both Sqn Ldr Marshall and Flt Lt Dave Fischer have put Harriers down on the deck of HMS Bulwark —RAF News, 1977

• I'd love a research assistant, but you have to pay for them. And most people want me to do things for free! —C. Tickell, 1991

• I think the James Bond themed music encouraged people to relax and gamble in the happy knowledge the money was not for real —Hull Daily Mail, 2002

• The days have gone when you could park for free across the road from the theatre —Birmingham Post, 2007.