What is truly? Pronunciation and usage in English

truly means . Learn how to pronounce and use truly through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of truly

trulyadverb

/ˈtruːli/
Definition & pronunciation of truly

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "truly" in English. It's a common stumbling block for non-native speakers!

Here's a breakdown of the sounds and how to put them together:

1. The Sounds:

  • "tr": This is pronounced like the "try" sound – /tr/ (as in "try")
  • "u": This is pronounced like the "oo" in "moon" – /uː/ (a long "oo" sound)
  • "ly": This is pronounced like "lee" – /li/ (rhymes with "knee")

2. Putting it Together - The Pronunciation:

The complete pronunciation is: /truːli/

Let's break it down further, with emphasis:

  • tru – Say "try"
  • -ly – Add the “lee” sound, making it "tru-lee"

Here's a few ways to hear it:

  • Google it: Simply search "how to pronounce truly" on Google and you'll find audio examples.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/truly/ – Forvo is a website where native speakers pronounce words.
  • YouTube: Many pronunciation guides on YouTube demonstrate the sound.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: "TRU".
  • The “u” sound: Don't say "too" or "true". It's the long "oo" sound as in "moon."
  • Smooth transition: Make a smooth connection between the "tr" and the "u" sound. Don't pause between them.

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Usage and examples with the word truly in English

Let's break down how to use the word "truly" in English. It's a seemingly simple word that adds a layer of emphasis and sincerity to your sentences. Here’s a detailed explanation:

1. Basic Function: Intensifier

  • Core Meaning: “Truly” primarily functions as an intensifier, meaning it strengthens the adjective or adverb it follows. It makes the description feel more genuine, real, or profound.

  • Example:

    • "She is truly amazing." (More impactful than just "She is amazing.")
    • "It was truly beautiful." (More impactful than "It was beautiful.")
    • "He played truly brilliantly." (Stronger than “He played brilliantly.”)

2. Placement – Where Does it Go?

  • Before the Adjective/Adverb: This is the most common placement.

    • "He's truly happy."
    • "The movie was truly heartbreaking."
    • "She speaks truly eloquently.”

  • After the Adjective/Adverb (Less Common – More Formal): You can sometimes put “truly” after the word it modifies, but it’s less frequent and often sounds more formal or literary. Use with caution.

    • "...a truly beautiful sunset." (Generally not preferred; "a beautiful, truly stunning sunset" is better.)
    • "...a truly remarkable achievement." (Again, less common than before.)

3. When to Use It (and When to Consider Alternatives)

  • To Express Sincerity: "Truly" is excellent when you want to convey that you genuinely feel something. It adds weight to your emotion.

  • To Emphasize Authenticity: It suggests reality and lack of pretense.

  • When "Really" Doesn't Feel Strong Enough: Sometimes, “really” is sufficient. However, “truly” feels like a more deliberate choice to elevate the statement.

  • Alternatives (Consider these):

    • Really: Often a perfectly acceptable and more common substitute.
    • Absolutely: For stronger affirmation.
    • Genuinely: Emphasizes sincerity.
    • Indeed: (More formal) – Adds agreement or confirmation.
    • Undoubtedly: For certainty.

4. Examples Demonstrating Different Shades of Meaning

  • Genuine Emotion: “I truly appreciate your kindness.” (Expresses deep gratitude)
  • Remarkable Quality: "That’s truly astounding." (Highlights something exceptional)
  • Deep Feeling: "It was truly devastating to hear the news." (Conveys a profound sadness)
  • Firm Agreement: “He is truly a good man.” (A strong statement of approval)

5. Overuse – A Caution

  • Don't overuse “truly”! Like many intensifiers, too much can make your writing or speech sound affected or unnatural. Use it sparingly and purposefully.

Resources for Further Study:

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Synonyms for the word truly

Idioms of the word truly

well and truly
(informal)completely
  • By that time we were well and truly lost.
yours truly
(North American English, formal)used at the end of a formal letter before you sign your name
    (informal, often humorous)I/me
    • Steve came first, Robin second, and yours truly came last.

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