really believed that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really believed that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a strong conviction or faith in a particular idea or statement. Example: "She really believed that her hard work would pay off in the end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I really believed that was true".

The New Yorker

No one really believed that; they only pretended to believe it.

The New Yorker

"She said, and this was something she really, really believed, that art was the bread of life.

The Guardian

No one really believed that was possible.

BBC

He really believed that".

Los Angeles Times

He really believed that living well really was the best revenge.

Huffington Post

She really believed that.

The Guardian

"I've never really believed that.

The Guardian - Sport

I asked if he really believed that.

The New York Times

It seems impossible that Sihanouk really believed that.

The New Yorker

Asked if he really believed that, Alderson did not equivocate.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "really believed that" to express a strong, genuine conviction or belief, especially when emphasizing the sincerity of the belief in contrast to doubt or skepticism.

Common error

Avoid using "really believed that" excessively in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "genuinely thought that" or "sincerely held that" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "really believed that" is to emphasize the strength and sincerity of a belief. It adds a layer of conviction beyond a simple statement of thought or opinion. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is used to convey a strong personal conviction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "really believed that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a strong sense of conviction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news and media, though suitable for a range of contexts. While it adds emphasis, it's wise to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "genuinely thought that" or "sincerely held that" for variety. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the depth of the belief you wish to convey. Ludwig's examples underscore its practical utility in emphasizing the sincerity behind a statement or opinion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuinely thought that

This alternative emphasizes the sincerity and authenticity of the belief.

truly considered that

Focuses on the depth and sincerity of the consideration leading to the belief.

honestly felt that

Highlights the honesty and personal feeling associated with the belief.

sincerely held that

Indicates a deep and unwavering commitment to the belief.

firmly maintained that

Stresses the steadfastness and persistence of the belief.

was convinced that

Highlights the state of being completely persuaded or certain.

had no doubt that

Emphasizes the absence of uncertainty or skepticism.

was certain that

Focuses on the complete assurance and confidence in the belief.

positively affirmed that

Highlights the forceful and assertive nature of the belief.

deeply embraced that

Emphasizes the emotional connection and acceptance of the belief.

FAQs

How can I use "really believed that" in a sentence?

Use "really believed that" to express a strong conviction about something. For example, "She "really believed that" hard work would lead to success."

What are some alternatives to "really believed that"?

You can use alternatives like "genuinely thought that", "truly considered that", or "honestly felt that" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "really believed that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English to emphasize the strength of a belief.

What's the difference between "really believed that" and "thought that"?

"Really believed that" indicates a stronger conviction than simply "thought that". "Thought that" suggests a general opinion, while ""really believed that"" implies a deep-seated belief.