genuinely
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dʒˈɛnjuːɪnli/
US
- /ˈdʒɛnˈjuˌwaɪnli/
- /ˈdʒɛnjəwənli/
Description
- truly
- sincerely
- authentically
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.
The word "genuinely" describes something that is real, authentic, and sincere, not false or pretended. It often points to a person's true feelings or intentions. For example, saying "she was genuinely happy for her friend's success" means her joy was not forced or merely polite; it came from real warmth and support.
"Genuinely" often emphasizes that something does not just seem a certain way, but truly is that way. If someone says they are "genuinely concerned," it suggests that their worry is real and heartfelt. It is stronger than simply saying "I am concerned" because it removes doubt about whether the feeling is sincere.
The word comes from the Latin root genuinus, meaning "native" or "natural," which helps explain its link to the adjective "genuine." We use "genuine" for things that are real rather than fake, and "genuinely" for the way a feeling, action, or quality is shown.
You will often see "genuinely" used with adjectives that describe emotions or personal qualities: genuinely grateful, genuinely surprised, or genuinely compassionate. It gives extra weight to the description and tells the listener that the feeling is real.
So, when you want to stress that something is real, honest, and from the heart, "genuinely" is a very useful word. It is all about truthfulness and authenticity in a world where things are not always what they seem.
Examples
- 1
Happiness
She seemed genuinely happy to see us.
- 2
Apology
I'm genuinely sorry about what happened.
- 3
Interest
He was genuinely interested in my idea.
- 4
Surprise
We genuinely didn't expect the meeting to last that long.
- 5
Gratitude
Thank you for helping me. I genuinely appreciate it.
- 6
Entertainment
The film is genuinely funny, not just clever.
- 7
Concern
Are you genuinely worried, or are you just being careful?
- 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