What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
literally
Example
I literally ran all the way here. [literally: adverb]
Example
The book was so good, I literally couldn't put it down. [literally: adverb]
genuinely
Example
I genuinely believe that he is telling the truth. [genuinely: adverb]
Example
She was genuinely happy to see her old friend again. [genuinely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Literally is more commonly used than genuinely in everyday language. Literally is often used in casual conversation, while genuinely is more commonly used in formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between literally and genuinely?
Genuinely is generally considered more formal than literally. While literally can be used in both formal and informal contexts, genuinely is typically reserved for more formal situations where sincerity and authenticity are important.
