really

Syllables:
real·ly
2 syllables
really in syllables

About "really"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "really" into Syllables

The word really is divided into 2 syllables: real·ly. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • real — 1st syllable
  • ly — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of really:

  • IPA: /ˈɹɪə.li/

Listen to Pronunciation

Note: Audio requires JavaScript enabled

📖 Definitions

  1. really (comparative more really, superlative most really)
  2. Like its synonyms, really is, in practice, often used to preface an opinion, rather than a fact. (See also usage notes for actually.)

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English really, realy, rialliche, equivalent to real +‎ -ly. From re- +‎ ally.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down really into syllables helps with:

  • Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
  • Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
  • Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
  • Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
  • Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare really with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word Syllables Division
really 2 real·ly
relay 2 re-lay
reel 1 reel
rural 2 rur-al
rely 2 re-ly

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to really:

read, real, ream, reap, rear, reach, react, ready.

Frequently Asked Questions About "really"

How many syllables does "really" have?

really has 2 syllables: real·ly. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "really"?

The stress is on the first syllable: real. This means you emphasize the "real" part when pronouncing really.

How do you pronounce "really"?

really is pronounced as /ˈɹɪə.li/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: real·ly.

Is "really" easy to spell?

Breaking really into syllables helps with spelling: real·ly. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "really" into syllables?

Learning syllable division helps with correct pronunciation, improved spelling, better reading fluency, and is useful for poetry and lyric writing where syllable counting matters. It's especially helpful for language learners.