truly
- 1In a real and honest way, really and not as a joke.
Like saying 'I really mean it' when you make a promise.
I truly believe she will win the race tomorrow.
He was truly sorry for the trouble he had caused.
UsageOften in I truly believe and I'm truly sorry. Yours truly can end a letter.
- 2To a great degree, very or extremely.
Like turning a sound all the way up so the word feels as strong as it can be.
The movie was truly amazing from start to finish.
It was a truly cold morning, and everyone wore heavy coats.
UsagePut it before a describing word: truly amazing, a truly cold day.
Similarreally, very, extremely, absolutely, utterly
Note
- 3In a way that matches the real facts, truthfully and correctly.
Like a mirror that shows exactly what is there, with nothing changed.
She answered every question truly and left nothing out.
Tell me truly, do you like my new haircut?
UsageOften with say, speak or tell: tell me truly.
Similartruthfully, accurately, faithfully
Oppositefalsely, untruthfully, inaccurately
Note
Practice
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Origin
From Old English trēowlīċe, meaning "faithfully" or "truly." It is made from "true" plus "-ly."
Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 3 facts
- Truly derives from Old English trēowlīċe. en.wiktionary.org
- Old English trēowlīċe means faithfully or truly. en.wiktionary.org
- Truly is formed from true plus -ly. en.wiktionary.org