not really

This page is about the conversational phrase not really

Meaning

You can use this instead of saying "no" if you think "no" might sound too definite or too strong.

For example

  • "Do you think Harry's handsome?"
    "Not really, but he's a lovely guy."

  • "Did you enjoy the movie?"
    "Not really. It was a bit too violent for me."

Quick Quiz

When I asked her if she liked the job, she said, "Not really." She

a. didn't like the job

b. wasn't really working

c. hadn't really decided yet
a) didn't like the job b) wasn't really working c) hadn't really decided yet

Contributor: Matt Errey