‘Realy’ or ‘Really’: How to Spell ‘Really’ Correctly

Wondering whether to write ‘realy’ or ‘really’? We’ll get into the answer to that and teach you how to use the word in a sentence correctly.

Don’t want to skim? Here’s the short answer:

• the correct spelling is ‘really.’ It’s never correct to spell it ‘realy.’

Really or Realy – A Quick Spelling Guide

You’ve already learned that the correct spelling for the word is ‘really,’ and not ‘realy.’ It would be ungrammatical to spell it that way.

Realy or Really - Which is Correct?

 So, now you know which spelling is correct. It’s really not that complicated of a word to spell when you think about all the other words in the English language that are much more difficult to spell.

• Such as words like ‘hippopotamus’ and ‘rapport.’

But let's quickly define the word before we talk about how to use it in a sentence correctly.

Definition of 'Really': What Does 'Really' Mean? 

The Merriam-Webster definition of ‘really’ is:

• in reality, actually
• truly, unquestionably
• very
• used to emphasize an assertion

Some synonyms of the word include:

• Actually
• Genuinely
• Very
• Authentically
• Truly
• Certifiably
• Veritably

Take a look at some phrases containing the word really:

• Not really
• Really and truly
• You really get me
• You really had me going
• I really don’t care

Understanding Adverbs

An adverb is a word that modifies other adverbs, verbs, or adjectives.

The word ‘really’ is considered an adverb because it describes all kinds of adverbs, verbs, and adjectives.

Here's an example:

• She did really well on her math test this week.

Adverbs are similar to adjectives in that they describe words also, but adverbs usually tells us what kind, how many, or which kind of noun or pronoun we’re talking about.

Whereas adjectives usually describe an action by showing us how, when, where, and to what extent something happened.

A Brief History of the Word

The word ‘really’ has been around since the 15^th century, but the origin of the word isn’t well known, like so many other words in the English language.

• However, it’s believed to refer to the actual presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

It’s been used as an interjection since the 1800s, much like it’s used today.

For example:

• “Oh, really?”

When using the phrase this way, it tends to carry with it a sense of disbelief. You’ve likely seen this on social media or even heard it in everyday conversations.

For example, if someone tells you a ridiculous story or excuse that seems pretty far-fetched, you’re likely to respond with an “Oh, really?” in your head. Unless, of course, you’re outspoken enough to actually say it to the person.

• Sometimes, it’s used to express sarcastic disbelief, similar to the way “bruh” is used.

When someone says something outrageous or tells a blatant lie, a typical response might be:

• “Really?”
• “Really, bro?”
• “Bruh”

The following would be typical responses from younger generations, like Millennials and Gen Z.

How to Use ‘Really’ in a Sentence 

Now that you know the definition and which spelling of the word is correct, let’s see how it’s used in a sentence correctly.

Check out some examples:

• I’m really struggling as a master’s student this semester; the workload is insane.
• Is it really the 31st of the month already? Where has the time gone?
• Sorry to bother you, but I really need a ride home.
• We really need to take some photos of this event to show potential clients.

Concluding Thoughts on ‘Realy’ and ‘Really’

You’ve learned the correct spelling, the definition, and how to use the word in a sentence. Keep all this in mind as you continue learning the language or brushing up on your skills.

• Remember, ‘really’ really has two ‘Ls.’

And if you still struggle with other confusing words, you can head back on over and browse our library of articles dedicated to explaining confusing words and phrases.