really though

USAGE SUMMARY

"really though" is a common phrase in spoken English and can also be used in written English as well.
It is often used informally to express agreement or emphasize a statement. Example: "The pizza was amazing, but it was a bit too greasy for my liking. Really though, I still enjoyed it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Really, though, we're both Midwesterners.

The New Yorker

Will it really, though?

The Guardian - Business

Really, though, it's cabaret.

The New York Times

Are they really, though?

The Guardian - Arts

Do you really though?

The Guardian - Sport

Really, though, it isn't.

The New York Times

Is he really though?

The Guardian - Sport

Really, though, Geivett has lots of ideas.

The New York Times - Sports

Really, though, it was classic Girardi.

The New York Times - Sports

"Really, though, I'm fine," he said.

The New Yorker

Really, though, "The Lone Ranger" deserves better.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "really though" to introduce a contrasting point or a more nuanced perspective after an initial statement. This can add depth and complexity to your writing.

Common error

While "really though" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid excessive use in formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated transition words or phrases to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "really though" is as an adverbial phrase that modifies the entire sentence or clause. It serves to introduce a qualification, contrast, or deeper consideration of the preceding statement, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "really though" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce a contrasting or clarifying point, often adding depth to a statement. While grammatically correct and very common in informal contexts, its overuse should be avoided in formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its function and purpose. Authoritative sources like The New Yorker, The Guardian and The New York Times exemplify its usage in news and media, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary for expressing nuanced perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuinely though

Emphasizes sincerity and truthfulness, similar to "really though" but with a stronger focus on authenticity.

honestly though

Highlights the speaker's honesty and candor in expressing their thought.

seriously though

Emphasizes the importance or gravity of the subsequent statement.

actually though

Introduces a statement that may be surprising or contrary to what was previously said.

in reality though

Points to the true state of affairs, often contrasting with an ideal or expectation.

but in all seriousness

Signals a shift to a more earnest or sincere tone after a lighter discussion.

if we're being honest

Implies a candid assessment, suggesting that the speaker is being forthright.

to be fair though

Introduces a balanced perspective or concession to another viewpoint.

when you think about it

Encourages the listener to consider a different angle or perspective.

on a deeper level

Suggests moving past a superficial understanding to explore the underlying meaning or implications.

FAQs

How can I use "really though" in a sentence?

"Really though" is typically used to introduce a contrasting or clarifying point. For example, "The movie was long, but "really though", I enjoyed it."

What's a more formal alternative to "really though"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "however", "nevertheless", or "in reality" instead of "really though".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "really though"?

While starting a sentence with "really though" is grammatically acceptable in informal contexts, it may be preferable to use a smoother transition in formal writing.

What is the difference between "really though" and "but really"?

"Really though" is often used to introduce a clarification or deeper thought, while "but really" is a direct contrast. For example, "It looks simple, "really though", it's complex" vs. "I like pizza, "but really" I prefer pasta".