really

Meanings

1. 1adverb

   In fact; truly or genuinely, used to stress that something is the case.

   Grammar: Often goes before the verb or adjective it emphasizes: 'I really like it.'

   Patterns

   • really + adjective
   • really + verb

   I really enjoyed the concert last night.

   She was really tired after the long flight.

2. 2adverb

   Used to ask about or question whether something is true, or to show surprise.

   Grammar: Often at the beginning or end of a question: 'Really?' or 'Is that really true?'

   Patterns

   • really?
   • is it really …?

   Really? I thought the meeting was canceled.

   Did she really say that to you?

Common combinations

really good

The pizza at that place is really good.

really want

I really want to visit Japan someday.

really need

You really need to see a doctor about that cough.

not really

Not really, I don't mind waiting.

Synonyms and how they differ

truly

Truly is more formal and often used in writing; really is common in everyday speech.

genuinely

Genuinely emphasizes sincerity and is a bit more formal than really.

actually

Actually often corrects a mistaken idea, while really just adds emphasis.

Word family

real adjective

Actual or true; the adjective form related to really.

reality noun

The state of things as they actually exist.

Commonly confused: really or real?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “really”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

Explore more words