really

[ree-uh-lee, ree-lee]

adverb

1. in reality; actually.

   to see things as they really are.

2. genuinely or truly.

   a really honest man.

3. indeed.

   Really, this is too much.

interjection

1. (used to express surprise, exasperation, etc.)

really

/ ˈrɪəlɪ /

adverb

1. in reality; in actuality; assuredly

   it's really quite harmless

2. truly; genuinely

   really beautiful

interjection

1. an exclamation of dismay, disapproval, doubt, surprise, etc

2. an exclamation of surprise or polite doubt

Word History and Origins

Origin of really¹

First recorded in 1400–50; real ¹ ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

"A direct impact with bone can cause really significant puncture type wounds, absolutely they are deadly weapons," he said.

From BBC

"The important thing is that we manage it really well and we give direction moving forward and stand strong," said Slegers.

From BBC

"We're used to having high fences and security guards; we don't really think twice about it," says one member of the Heaton Park community.

From BBC

He threw himself into the spoils of band life, partying and drinking to excess in an attempt to prove that nothing had really changed.

From Los Angeles Times

"We have a really good chance of making a deal, and it'll be a lasting deal," the president told reporters at the White House on Monday.

From BBC

Related Words

• absolutely 
• actually 
• certainly 
• easily 
• genuinely 
• honestly 
• indeed 
• legitimately www.thesaurus.com
• literally 
• surely 
• truly 
• undoubtedly 
• unquestionably 
• well