really

/ˈɹɪl.i/
adverbinterjection

In a way or manner that is real, not unreal.

NWL Collins ENABLE

Adverb 3 meanings

  1. In a way or manner that is real, not unreal.

  2. Actually; in fact; in reality.

    “"He really is a true friend." / "Really? What makes you so sure?"”

  3. Very (modifying an adjective); very much (modifying a verb).

    “But ma, I really, really want to go to the show!”

Interjection 4 meanings

  1. Indicating surprise at, or requesting confirmation of, some new information; to express skepticism.

    “A: He won the Nobel Prize yesterday.”

  2. Indicating that what was just said was obvious and unnecessary; contrived incredulity

    “A: I've just been reading Shakespeare - he's one of the best authors like, ever!”

  3. Indicating affirmation, agreement.

    “A: That girl talks about herself way too much.”

  4. Indicating displeasure at another person's behaviour or statement.

    “Well, really! How rude.”

Definitions: Wiktionary (CC BY-SA) via Kaikki/Wiktextract

Where it comes from

Etymology

From Middle English really, realy, rialliche, equivalent to real + -ly.

Similar and opposite words

REALLY at a glance

REALLY has 6 letters and scores 9 points in Scrabble (R 1 + E 1 + A 1 + L 1 + L 1 + Y 4) and 10 in Words With Friends, before board bonuses. It ranks #108 by how often it appears in everyday English. It is valid in ENABLE, NWL2023, Collins/SOWPODS.

Rhymes with really

All rhymes

One letter away

Change one letter, keep the rest
  • REALTY9
  • LEALLY9
  • REARLY9

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