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genuinely

B2
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /dʒˈɛnjuːɪnli/

US

  • /ˈdʒɛnˈjuˌwaɪnli/
  • /ˈdʒɛnjəwənli/

Description

To do something genuinely means to do it with real feeling and honesty, not by pretending or putting on an act. If your friend asks whether you had fun at the party, answering genuinely means saying how you truly felt, even if the night was only okay. It is about being real in your words and actions. You might say someone is a genuinely kind person, meaning their kindness is natural and not for show. Think of a heartfelt apology: for it to be genuinely offered, it should come from real regret.

Examples

  1. 1

    Happiness

    She seemed genuinely happy to see us.

  2. 2

    Apology

    I'm genuinely sorry about what happened.

  3. 3

    Interest

    He was genuinely interested in my idea.

  4. 4

    Surprise

    We genuinely didn't expect the meeting to last that long.

  5. 5

    Gratitude

    Thank you for helping me. I genuinely appreciate it.

  6. 6

    Entertainment

    The film is genuinely funny, not just clever.

  7. 7

    Concern

    Are you genuinely worried, or are you just being careful?

  8. 8

    Sincere question

    I'm genuinely asking because I don't know.

    • Phrase

      genuinely asking

      asking in a sincere way, not trying to argue

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • genuinelyadverb