/ ˈriːəli; NAmE ; BrE also ˈrɪəli/ adverb
1.
used to say what is actually the fact or the truth about sth :
What do you really think about it?
Tell me what really happened.
They are not really my aunt and uncle.
I can't believe I am really going to meet the princess.
2.
used to emphasize sth you are saying or an opinion you are giving :
I want to help, I really do.
Now I really must go.
I really don't mind.
He really likes you.
I really and truly am in love this time.
3.
used to emphasize an adjective or adverb :
a really hot fire
I'm really sorry.
4.
used, often in negative sentences, to reduce the force of sth you are saying :
I don't really agree with that.
It doesn't really matter.
'Did you enjoy the book?' ' Not really ' (= 'no' or 'not very much') .
HELP NOTE : The position of really can change the meaning of the sentence. I don't really know means that you are not sure about something; I really don't know emphasizes that you do not know. (Look at sense 2.)
5.
used in questions and negative sentences when you want sb to say 'no' :
Do you really expect me to believe that?
I don't really need to go, do I?
6.
used to express interest in or surprise at what sb is saying :
'We're going to Japan next month.' 'Oh, really?'
'She's resigned.' 'Really? Are you sure?'
7.
used to show that you disapprove of sth sb has done :
Really, you could have told us before.