adverb
In fact; used to show that something is true, not imagined or false.
I really want to help.
Did she really say that?
Common phrases & grammar
really want · really need
subject + really + verb
subject + be + really + adjective
American English
How to pronounce really
adverbA2Very common word
REElee
/ˈɹi.li/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
In fact; used to show that something is true, not imagined or false.
What to listen for
“Really” is commonly pronounced “REE-lee” (/ˈɹi.li/) or “REE-uh-lee” (/ˈɹi.ə.li/). In casual speech, you may also hear “RIL-lee” (/ˈɹɪ.li/).
Common pronunciation/ˈɹi.li/
Three-syllable pronunciation/ˈɹi.ə.li/
Casual pronunciation/ˈɹɪ.li/
Meanings & examples
adverb
To a high degree; used to make a description stronger.
The movie was really good.
She runs really fast.
Good to know
Before an adjective, really usually means “very,” not “in fact.”
Common phrases & grammar
really good · really important
really + adjective
really + adverb
adverb
Used alone or in a question to show surprise, doubt, or interest.
Really? I didn't know that.
Really, you did all this by yourself?
Useful expressions
used to mean no, or not very much
Do you like spicy food? Not really.
used to show surprise or doubt
Oh, really? That sounds surprising.