really

The word “really” means in actual fact; truly, as opposed to seeming or claiming to be so. In plain terms, a word for emphasizing that something is true, or for intensifying another word, or a one-word reaction of surprise.

“Really” is pronounced REER-lee (/ˈɹɪl.i/ in IPA).

Here is “really” used in a sentence: “Is it really true that he quit his job?”

Words with a similar meaning to “really” include in fact, indeed, truly, gosh, is that so and no kidding.

Depending on how it is used, “really” can be an adverb and an intj.

“Really” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Really” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in actual fact; truly, as opposed to seeming or claiming to be so.

In its true sense, really means 'in actual fact' — 'What really happened?' Very simply intensifies — 'very tired' means to a high degree. The confusion arises because really is also used loosely as an intensifier ('really tired'). But in the factual sense, really contrasts appearance with reality, while very just measures degree.

They are close and often interchangeable. Really stresses that something is true rather than merely apparent — 'Is he really leaving?' Actually tends to correct a mistaken assumption or introduce a surprising fact — 'Actually, the meeting is on Tuesday.' Both point to the truth, but actually leans towards setting the record straight.

Really sits on the informal side, especially when used to intensify ('really good') or to react in conversation ('Oh, really?'). In its factual sense — 'what really occurred' — it is neutral and fine in most writing. For very formal prose, 'in fact,' 'truly,' or 'genuinely' can feel more polished.

In the factual sense, really separates truth from appearance: 'She seems calm, but is she really?' or 'That is not really gold, it is plated.' Here really insists on what is actually the case, cutting through how things merely look or what someone claims.