De verdad, de veras, en serio, en rigor, realmente, en realidad, etc.

Question

Are these all synonymous for "really/actually"? The variations go on forever, unless there's a finer distinction I'm missing?

As a learner, should I just learn a couple and stick with them?

Answer 1

Spanish sepakers use "de verdad", "de veras", "en serio" and "realmente" the way English speakers use "really". And we use "en realidad" the way you use "actually".

In Argentina, we don't use "en rigor". At least I have never used it and I have never heard it in daily life conversations.

Hope it helps!

Thanks! Thanks all. - TheSilentHero, Aug 29, 2011

Answer 2

The country I am living in I mainly only hear en serio for "really?" or "seriously?" and la verdad es for "well actually..." or "the truth is..."

I like to stick with what I know and mix in new phrases as I feel comfortable.. Sorry I can't really answer your question but I think part of it depends on the region you live. Maybe a native speaker will respond to your question...

and what's the country you are living in? - jz900, Aug 29, 2011

Costa Rica... - cheeseisyummy, Aug 30, 2011

Answer 3

de verdad - "......, right?" >>> El cielo es azul, de verdad?

en serio - "seriously" or "really" as if clarifying a fact >>> El cielo es azul. "En serio?" "En serio."

realmente - "really" >>> "Realmente me adora." He really adores me.

I'm not really familiar with de veras but I know it falls into the same category, I just never use it so I can't give an example. I have never hear en rigor either.

I'm only a conversational spanish speaker, but I hope I helped a little .

Answer 4

I do not have enough experience to advise you. I can tell you that I have seen ,heard or read a couple frequently.They would be,"de verdad,de veras y en realidad." The others not so much. I hope this helps by at least bumping your question so you can get more answers.Buena suerte.