informal2K

UK//nɒt ˈrɪəli//US//nɑt ˈrɪəli//

Meaning of Not really

Used to indicate that something is not entirely true or accurate.

In simple words: Not true or correct.

Not really in a sentence

  • When he said he was an expert, I thought, 'Not really'.
  • Do you enjoy spicy food? Not really, it’s a bit too hot for me.
  • She claimed to be finished, but not really; she still had a lot to do.
  • Are you excited about the movie? Not really, I've heard bad reviews.
  • He said he could swim well, but I thought, 'Not really' after seeing him struggle.

How to use Not really

Used to express disagreement or doubt. Common in casual conversations, but may be too informal for formal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of 'Not really' as a polite way of saying 'No, not at all'.

Related words

Collocations with Not really

  • not really my thing
  • not really sure
  • not really interested

Synonyms for Not really

  • not exactly
  • not quite
  • not really true
  • not totally

Common mistakes with Not really

  • Using it in very formal writing or speeches.
  • Confusing with 'not really' as a definitive answer instead of an expression of doubt.

Not really appears in

Not really in other languages

More chunks like Not really

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Frequently asked questions about Not really

What does Not really mean?

Not true or correct.

What is the definition of Not really?

Used to indicate that something is not entirely true or accurate.

How do you use Not really in a sentence?

When he said he was an expert, I thought, 'Not really'.

Can you give another example of Not really?

Do you enjoy spicy food? Not really, it’s a bit too hot for me.

What are synonyms for Not really?

Common alternatives include not exactly, not quite, not really true, not totally.

What words go with Not really?

It commonly pairs with not really my thing, not really sure, not really interested.

What are common mistakes when using Not really?

Using it in very formal writing or speeches. Confusing with 'not really' as a definitive answer instead of an expression of doubt.

How do you pronounce Not really?

US: //nɑt ˈrɪəli//, UK: //nɒt ˈrɪəli//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Not really formal or informal?

"Not really" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Not really?

Used to express disagreement or doubt. Common in casual conversations, but may be too informal for formal settings.