it really happens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it really happens" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the reality or occurrence of an event or situation, often in a context where disbelief or skepticism may exist. Example: "I know it sounds unbelievable, but it really happens; people can change their lives overnight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

It appears that Dr. Banatvala was successful in moving the strategy along not only because he was from the bureaucracy where "it really happens" but also because he had experience in and understanding of the different worlds, players and issues that needed to be integrated into the strategy.

Globalization and Health

As to whether it really happens, the page is a free space.

The New Yorker

I don't think it really happens".

The New Yorker

"There is a criticism -- 'That's not how it really happens.

The New York Times - Style

"Every time people suffer a hurricane you are compassionate, but you don't feel it until it really happens to you".

The New York Times

I'm not going to get too excited until it really happens".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Is it really happening?

The New York Times - Sports

"It really happened.

The New York Times

Did it really happen?

The New York Times - Books

Will it really happen?

Independent

So it really happened".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it really happens", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone. It can be used in both serious and lighthearted situations, but appropriateness is key.

Common error

Avoid using "it really happens" excessively in formal writing or academic papers, as it may come across as too informal or conversational. Opt for more precise and professional language to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it really happens" functions as an affirmation of reality. It serves to emphasize that something actually occurs, often in contexts where there might be doubt or disbelief. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it really happens" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to affirm the actuality of an event, often against potential skepticism. According to Ludwig, the phrase is generally appropriate across different contexts. The primary contexts are News & Media and Science. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing, opting for more precise alternatives. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is common and effectively conveys the speaker's conviction that something indeed takes place.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it actually occurs

Replaces "really happens" with a more factual term, focusing on the occurrence itself.

it genuinely transpires

Substitutes stronger synonyms emphasizing truthfulness.

it certainly unfolds

Highlights the unfolding or development of an event.

it veritably comes about

More formal replacement, stressing the reality of the event.

it concretely materializes

Focuses on the physical manifestation or realization of something.

it demonstrably arises

Emphasizes that the event arises in a way that can be shown or proven.

it authentically comes to pass

A more emphatic and somewhat archaic way of saying something happens.

it palpably takes place

Stresses the tangibility or obviousness of the event occurring.

it indubitably materializes

Emphasizes the lack of doubt that the event happens or comes into being.

it in truth comes to fruition

Focuses on the realization or completion of a process or plan.

FAQs

How can I use "it really happens" in a sentence?

You can use "it really happens" to emphasize the truth or reality of a situation, particularly one that might be surprising or hard to believe. For example: "I know it sounds crazy, but "it really happens"; miracles do occur."

What are some alternatives to "it really happens"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "it actually occurs", "it genuinely transpires", or "it certainly unfolds" to convey a similar meaning. Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance.

Is "it really happens" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it really happens" is grammatically correct. The word "really" is an adverb modifying the verb "happens", indicating the degree to which something happens.

What's the difference between "it really happens" and "it really happened"?

"It really happens" refers to something that occurs regularly or is generally true, while "it really happened" refers to a specific event in the past. For example: "It really happens all the time" versus "It really happened last night".