genuinely
gb/d͡ʒˈɛnjuɪnli/ us/d͡ʒˈɛnjuɪnli/
B2
English
~ 6700
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B2
property
1
truly; in a sincere way
In a way that is real and honest, not fake or just for show.
Usage pattern:
genuinely [adjective] / genuinely [feel/think/believe] that [clause]
Common mistake:
Learners often confuse "genuinely" with "generally" because they look similar. "Genuinely" means "in a real, honest way", while "generally" means "in most cases" or "usually". Another mistake is using "genuinely" where simple "really" is more natural in very casual speech; however, "genuinely" is fine and slightly more formal or precise.
Synonyms
truly (Very close in meaning; slightly more common and neutral in all contexts.)
|
really (More informal and very frequent; can sound less focused on honesty and more on emphasis.)
|
sincerely (Often used about feelings or apologies; slightly more formal and emotional.)
|
honestly (Adds a sense of personal truth-telling; can sound more subjective or conversational.)
Antonyms
insincerely (Describes behavior or feelings that are not real or honest, only for appearance.)
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falsely (Focuses on something not being true or correct, often in a deliberate or deceptive way.)
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superficially (Suggests something only seems true on the surface, not in a deep or real way.)
Collocations
genuinely sorry
|genuinely interested
|genuinely grateful
|genuinely care
|genuinely believe
|genuinely happy
Themes
emotions
|communication
|character
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- She was genuinely surprised by the news, not just pretending for the camera.
- I am genuinely grateful for all the help you gave me.
- He seems genuinely interested in understanding other people’s problems.
- They were genuinely happy to see each other again after so many years.
- If you genuinely believe this is wrong, you should say so.
Learner examples
- I am genuinely sorry that I hurt you.
- She looks genuinely happy in this photo.
- He is genuinely interested in learning English.
- They were genuinely afraid during the storm.
- I genuinely believe you can pass the exam.
Grammar
Dictionary form
genuinely
IPA
GB/d͡ʒˈɛnjuɪnli/
US/d͡ʒˈɛnjuɪnli/
Syllables & stress
genu - inely (2 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (genu)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: genuinely
- Plural: genuinelies
Word family
Forms
genuinelies
noun
Core family
genuine
adjective B1
Related words
genuineness
noun
Negative and opposite forms
disingenuous
adjective
disingenuously
adverb
Expressions
No expressions linked to this entry yet.