REALLY meaning and definition

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What Does "Really" Mean?

The phrase "really" is one of the most overused and underexamined words in our language. We use it all the time - "I'm really tired," "That's really nice," or "This coffee is really good." But what does "really" mean, anyway?

A Brief History

To understand what "really" means, we need to look back at its origins. The word "really" comes from Old English and Middle English, where it was used to emphasize the truth of a statement. For example, in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (circa 1387), he writes: "Thou art myn owyn wyf, verily, in dede." Here, "verily" and "in dede" both mean "really," emphasizing the sincerity of the speaker.

The Many Meanings of "Really"

So, what does "really" mean today? Surprisingly, it's not just a simple intensifier. "Really" can have different meanings depending on the context:

Emphasis: In casual conversation, "really" is often used to add emphasis or express surprise. For example: "I'm really hungry" emphasizes the speaker's hunger.
Truthfulness: As mentioned earlier, "really" was originally used to emphasize truthfulness. This sense still lingers today, implying that what follows is genuinely true. For instance: "That really happened" suggests that the event described actually occurred.
Intensity or degree: In some cases, "really" can modify an adjective or adverb, indicating a higher level of intensity or degree. For example: "This coffee is really hot" implies that it's extremely hot.
Sarcastic tone: When used sarcastically, "really" often carries the opposite meaning - implying that something is not true at all. For instance: "Oh, great, just what I needed - another bill to pay. Really."

The Trouble with "Really"

While "really" can be a useful word in certain situations, it's also a source of frustration for many people. Here are a few reasons why:

Lack of precision: Because "really" has multiple meanings and connotations, it can be unclear what the speaker intends to convey.
Overuse: The phrase is so common that it often loses its impact or becomes annoying to hear repeatedly.
Sarcastic tone: When used sarcastically, "really" can come across as insincere or even passive-aggressive.

Conclusion

So, what does "really" mean? In short, it's a multifaceted word that can convey emphasis, truthfulness, intensity, or sarcasm - depending on the context and tone. While it has its uses, it's also important to recognize its limitations and potential drawbacks. By understanding the various meanings of "really," we can use this word more intentionally and effectively in our daily conversations.

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