Really vs. So

Attribute	Really	So
Intensity	Very	Less intense
Usage	Informal	Informal
Emphasis	Strong emphasis	Less emphasis
Commonly used in	Everyday language	Everyday language

Introduction

When it comes to expressing emphasis or agreement in English, two common words that are often used are "really" and "so." While they may seem similar in meaning, there are subtle differences in how they are used and the nuances they convey. In this article, we will explore the attributes of "really" and "so" and compare their usage in various contexts.

Definition and Usage of Really

The word "really" is an adverb that is used to emphasize the truth or accuracy of a statement. It is often used to express sincerity or to confirm the validity of something. For example, "I really enjoyed the movie" or "She really means what she says." "Really" can also be used to express surprise or disbelief, as in "Did that really happen?" or "I can't believe it's really you."

Definition and Usage of So

The word "so" is a versatile adverb that can be used in various ways. One common usage of "so" is to express agreement or confirmation. For example, "I think we should go to the beach." "So do I." Another common usage of "so" is to express the extent or degree of something, as in "I am so tired" or "She is so talented." "So" can also be used to introduce a consequence or result, as in "I studied hard, so I passed the exam."

Emphasis and Intensity

One key difference between "really" and "so" is the level of emphasis and intensity they convey. "Really" is often used to add a strong emphasis to a statement, indicating a high level of sincerity or truthfulness. On the other hand, "so" is more commonly used to express agreement or to indicate a high degree or extent of something. For example, "I really love this song" conveys a stronger sense of emotion than "I so love this song."

Agreement and Confirmation

While both "really" and "so" can be used to express agreement or confirmation, they are often used in different contexts. "Really" is typically used to confirm the truth or validity of a statement, while "so" is more commonly used to agree with a previous statement or to express a similar sentiment. For example, "I really think we should go" emphasizes the speaker's belief, while "So do I" simply agrees with the previous statement.

Expressing Consequences

Another difference between "really" and "so" is in how they are used to express consequences or results. "Really" is not typically used to introduce a consequence, while "so" is commonly used in this context. For example, "I studied really hard, so I passed the exam" indicates a cause-and-effect relationship between the two clauses. On the other hand, using "really" in this context would sound awkward and unnatural.

Informal vs. Formal Usage

One factor to consider when choosing between "really" and "so" is the level of formality in the context. "Really" is generally considered more formal and is often used in professional or academic settings. On the other hand, "so" is more informal and is commonly used in casual conversations or everyday speech. For example, saying "I really appreciate your help" may be more appropriate in a formal setting, while saying "Thanks so much" is more suitable for a casual conversation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "really" and "so" may seem similar in meaning, they have distinct attributes and are used in different contexts. "Really" is often used to emphasize the truth or sincerity of a statement, while "so" is more versatile and can be used to express agreement, extent, or consequences. Understanding the nuances of these two words can help you communicate more effectively and convey your intended meaning with clarity.