truly

Truly is an English adverb used to indicate that a statement is true or that something is genuine. It can modify verbs, adjectives, or whole clauses, serving as an intensifier or as an expression of sincerity. In formal prose, it often marks factual accuracy or earnest belief: "This result is truly significant." In everyday speech, it frequently emphasizes quality: "truly wonderful" or "she truly cares." It may also function as a sentence adverb to underscore the speaker’s stance: "Truly, I was mistaken."

Truly derives from true, from Old English treowe, treow, meaning faithful or trustworthy. The adverbial suffix -ly was added in Middle English to form truly, around the 13th century, giving the sense of "in a true manner." The word has long carried senses of honesty, authenticity, and sincerity, as well as accuracy or correctness.

In modern usage, truly is somewhat more formal or emphatic than really and can convey a sense of earnestness, authenticity, or moral weight. It is common in literature, journalism, and religious or ceremonial contexts, but it can sound pretentious if overused in casual speech. It contrasts with really in nuance: "really" signals degree, whereas "truly" stresses truthfulness or authenticity.

Related terms include truth, truthful, and truthfully. A richer synonym set includes genuinely, sincerely, and honestly; the choice depends on intended emphasis.