truly

The word “truly” means in accordance with fact; accurately or honestly. In plain terms, genuinely, honestly, or to a strong degree.

“Truly” is pronounced TROO-lee (/ˈtɹuːli/ in IPA).

Here is “truly” used in a sentence: “Tell me truly, did you take the last cookie?”

Words with a similar meaning to “truly” include frankly, sincerely, literally and exceedingly.

“Truly” is an adverb.

The word “truly” comes from Old English. From Old English trēowlīċe, "faithfully," built from true plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.

“Truly” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Truly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in accordance with fact; accurately or honestly.

Both affirm or intensify, and they often overlap. "Truly" leans toward sincerity and accordance with fact, as in "I truly mean it." "Really" is more casual and is also used for emphasis or surprise, as in "It's really hot." In heartfelt statements, "truly" sounds more earnest.

"Yours truly" is a polite closing for letters and emails, written just before your signature, and slightly less formal than "yours sincerely." Informally, "yours truly" can also be a playful way of referring to oneself: "And who tidied up afterwards? Yours truly."

"Truly" works in both settings. It appears in formal writing and sign-offs like "yours truly," and in everyday speech for sincerity or emphasis, as in "I'm truly sorry." Its tone is generally earnest, making it feel genuine and heartfelt rather than merely casual.

Depending on the sense, alternatives include "genuinely," "honestly," "sincerely," "really," and "actually." For accordance with fact, "genuinely" or "honestly" fit well; for emphasis, "really" works. Each keeps the core idea of something being true, accurate, or heartfelt.