Really
ˈrɪəli
Definitions
In reality; actually; truly; very; indeed.
ˈrɪəli
Used to emphasize a statement or to express interest, surprise, or agreement.
I really want to go to the beach.
💡 Simply: It's like saying something is extra true or that you're very interested. Imagine you love ice cream, you'd say, "I *really* love ice cream!"
👶 For kids: When you say something is *really* true or that you like it a lot.
More Examples
She is really smart.
Are you really leaving already?
How It's Used
"I really enjoyed the movie."
"Are you going to the party? Really?"
Idioms & expressions
Really now!
Expresses disbelief or disapproval.
"Really now! You shouldn't have done that."
Is that really you?
Expresses surprise or skepticism about someone's identity or appearance.
"I couldn't believe it when I saw her. Is that really you?"
From Middle English *reli, reeli*, from Old English *rihte* ('truly, rightly') + -ly. Cognate with Dutch *reëel*, German *real*.
Appeared in Old English with meanings related to 'truly' and 'genuinely'. Its use to emphasize a statement increased over time.
Memory tip
Think of adding 'a lot' to the word to remember it means 'very much'.
Word Origin
"truly, rightly"