What does genuinely mean?
Genuinely is an adverb that describes something as true, real, authentic, or sincere, rather than merely apparent, performed, or insincere. It commonly strengthens a statement: “She is genuinely interested” asserts that her interest is real, while “The medicine genuinely works” indicates actual effectiveness rather than a marginal or doubtful result. The word can also convey that someone is sincere, as in a genuine expression of gratitude or concern. Because it sounds emphatic, speakers may use it when distinguishing reality from appearance, sometimes with a mildly skeptical or emphatic tone. Genuinely is common in formal and informal English in both British and American usage. It is especially useful in reporting, discussion, and everyday conversation when the speaker wants to avoid a vague claim that something is only approximately or superficially true. Its emphasis can also make a claim sound stronger and more emphatic than the surrounding wording otherwise might suggest.
adverbIn a true, real, or authentic way; truly. It can also emphasize that a quality, feeling, or result is genuine rather than merely apparent.
- In a true, real, or authentic way; truly.
- As an intensifier, indicating that something is real, sincere, or substantial rather than merely apparent.
"Her concern for the community was genuinely heartfelt."
"She was genuinely relieved to hear that the scholarship had been renewed."
"Researchers remain genuinely divided over whether the policy has reduced emissions."
Genuinely began life as a promise of reality: its Latin ancestor meant “true,” especially as opposed to something counterfeit.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does genuinely come from?
The adverb genuinely was formed in the 16th century by adding the suffix -ly to genuine. Genuine had entered English from Latin genuinus, meaning “true” or “not counterfeit,” a word associated with Latin genus, meaning “kind” or “origin.” Related Latin derivatives include generous, genius, and genial, all of which are commonly traced to the same Indo-European root associated with begetting or producing.
How genuinely is actually used
The adverb is common in formal and informal English in both British and American usage. Its intensifying use can sound emphatic and occasionally skeptical, especially when contrasting reality with appearance.
Easily confused with genuinely
Genuinely means truly or authentically, whereas gently means softly, carefully, or without force.
Genuine is an adjective or noun, while genuinely is the adverb formed from it.