really however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really however" is not standard in written English and may be considered awkward or incorrect.
It could be used in informal contexts where someone wants to emphasize a contrast or contradiction, but it is generally better to avoid this combination. Example: "I thought the movie would be boring; really however, it turned out to be quite entertaining."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Really, however, there are very few false notes.

The Guardian - Film

Really, however reduced the circumstances, it's good to see her at all.

Independent

Really, however, the best way of summing up my encounter is to say that it takes David precisely nine seconds to present me with a T-shirt with his own face on it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In really however, stress arch forms above the reservoir and the overburden pressure drops during production.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Do we really, however, always to be "us" online - as the basis of everything we do, in the eyes of the world, as a condition of entry to all digital services and knowledge?

BBC

Really, however, Nest is designed to program itself.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Mr. Willoughby never really blossomed, however.

The New York Times

The Jornada really shines, however, in the power department.

The New York Times - Tech

The only two characters who really matter, however, are Alma and John.

The New York Times

I would really prefer, however, not to buy returned underwear.

The New York Times

What really mattered, however, were the land forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "really however", ensure it serves a clear purpose in emphasizing a contrast or unexpected element, as overuse can weaken its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "really however" multiple times within a short piece of writing. This can make your text sound repetitive and less sophisticated. Instead, vary your transitional phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "really however" functions primarily as an adverbial connector, linking two contrasting ideas or clauses. It adds emphasis to the contrast, indicating a surprising or unexpected element. As Ludwig AI points out, more direct options may offer improved clarity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "really however" is a phrase used to introduce a contrast, often with an element of surprise. While grammatically acceptable, it's frequently considered stylistically awkward, and more concise alternatives like "however", "actually", or "in fact" are often preferred. Ludwig AI indicates it's found mainly in News & Media and Science contexts. While "really however" isn't incorrect, carefully consider whether a simpler phrase would convey your meaning more effectively. Alternatives like "actually though" and "in reality though" may be suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

actually though

Replaces "really" with "actually", maintaining the contrast but with a slightly more casual tone.

in reality though

Substitutes "really" with "in reality", emphasizing the actual state of affairs despite appearances.

but in fact

Replaces "really however" with a more direct and common contrasting phrase.

yet truly

Uses "yet" to introduce a contrast and "truly" for emphasis, similar to "really however".

genuinely nonetheless

Emphasizes authenticity with "genuinely", while "nonetheless" highlights the contrast.

veritably still

Combines "veritably" for truthfulness with "still" to indicate a condition that persists despite something else.

indeed even so

"Indeed" confirms something, while "even so" introduces a contrast.

honestly nevertheless

"Honestly" adds sincerity, while "nevertheless" introduces a contrasting point.

to be honest though

Introduces a candid perspective before presenting a contrasting idea.

when you get down to it though

This longer phrase sets up a more considered contrasting point.

FAQs

Is "really however" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "really however" is often considered an awkward phrasing. It's generally better to use alternatives like "actually" or "in fact" for clearer communication.

What are some alternatives to "really however"?

Depending on the context, you can use "however", "actually", "in reality", or "but in fact" as alternatives to "really however".

When is it appropriate to use "really however"?

"Really however" can be used in informal contexts where you want to emphasize a contrast or contradiction, but it's often more effective to choose a more concise and direct phrasing. Consider if "however" alone could suffice.

Is there a difference in meaning between "really however" and "however really"?

While both phrases are uncommon, "however really" places more emphasis on the "really", suggesting a stronger degree of truth or actuality. "Really however" functions more as a transitional phrase emphasizing contrast. It's likely best to avoid both and use more standard alternatives.