# rly

CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rly
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a short way to write 'really' in text messages or online. You use it to show you feel strongly about something or to say that something is true.

For teachers: a non-standard, phonetic spelling of 'really' used in digital communication. Functions as an intensifier or a sentence adverb to express sincerity or emphasis.

## Examples

- I am rly tired today.
- She texted me saying she was rly sorry for missing the meeting this morning.
- While common in casual instant messaging, using rly in a professional email would likely be perceived as a lack of effort or an inappropriate level of familiarity.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The movie was rly." but "The movie was rly good." — Like 'really', 'rly' is an adverb and usually needs an adjective or verb to modify; it cannot stand alone as an adjective.

## Usage notes

- Informal spelling; restricted to text messaging, social media, and casual digital contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.