40 percent of students struggle with using informal language in academic writing, and one of the most common words that raises questions is "really".
Understanding the Word
The word "really" is often used in everyday conversation to add emphasis to a statement, but its use in academic writing is more nuanced. In formal writing, the goal is to convey ideas clearly and concisely, without relying on casual language.
Using Really in Context
In some cases, "really" can be used in academic writing to add emphasis or clarify a point, but it should be used sparingly. For example, in a comparison or when discussing the significance of a finding, "really" can help to drive home the importance of the idea. However, it is generally better to use more formal language to convey emphasis, such as using words like "notably" or "significantly".
Formal Alternatives
Academic writers often prefer to use more formal alternatives to "really", such as "in fact" or "indeed", to add emphasis to their writing. This helps to maintain a formal tone and avoid the appearance of informality. By choosing the right words, writers can effectively convey their ideas and maintain the integrity of their academic work.
Expert opinions
Dr. Emily J. Wilson
As a linguistics professor with a specialization in academic writing, I, Dr. Emily J. Wilson, have often been asked by students whether it is acceptable to use the word "really" in academic writing. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no, but rather a nuanced explanation of the role of "really" in academic discourse.
In general, academic writing is characterized by its formal tone, objective language, and precise vocabulary. The use of adverbs like "really" can sometimes be seen as informal or even lazy, as they can be used to intensify a statement without providing concrete evidence or supporting details. For instance, saying "this theory is really important" does not provide any specific reasons why the theory is important, and therefore, it may not be considered a strong academic argument.
However, there are situations where "really" can be used effectively in academic writing. For example, in a comparative analysis, "really" can be used to highlight the significance of a particular finding or to emphasize the difference between two variables. In such cases, "really" can be used to add emphasis and clarity to the writing, making it more engaging and easier to understand.
It is also worth noting that the use of "really" can vary depending on the discipline and the type of academic writing. In some fields, such as humanities or social sciences, "really" may be more commonly used to convey nuanced ideas or to express subtle distinctions. In contrast, in fields like science or engineering, "really" may be less frequently used, as the focus is often on objective, empirical evidence rather than subjective interpretation.
To use "really" effectively in academic writing, it is essential to consider the context, purpose, and audience of the writing. If "really" is used to add emphasis or to convey a specific tone, it should be used sparingly and with careful consideration. Additionally, it is crucial to provide supporting evidence and clear explanations to substantiate any claims made, regardless of whether "really" is used or not.
In conclusion, while "really" can be used in academic writing, it is essential to use it judiciously and with careful consideration of the context and purpose of the writing. By doing so, academic writers can effectively convey their ideas, engage their audience, and maintain the formal tone and objective language that is characteristic of academic discourse.
As an expert in academic writing, I, Dr. Emily J. Wilson, recommend that students and scholars approach the use of "really" with caution, using it only when necessary and with careful attention to the surrounding context. By doing so, they can produce high-quality academic writing that is clear, concise, and effective in conveying their ideas and arguments.
Q: Is it acceptable to use "really" in academic writing?
A: While "really" can be used in academic writing, it's generally considered informal and should be used sparingly. In most cases, more formal alternatives like "actually" or "in fact" are preferred.
Q: Can I use "really" in academic essays to add emphasis?
A: Yes, "really" can be used to add emphasis in academic essays, but it's essential to use it judiciously and in moderation. Overusing "really" can make your writing seem less formal and less credible.
Q: Are there any alternative words to "really" in academic writing?
A: Yes, alternatives like "notably," "remarkably," or "significantly" can be used to convey a similar meaning to "really" in academic writing. These words are often more formal and suitable for academic contexts.
Q: Is "really" suitable for use in formal academic papers like dissertations or theses?
A: No, in formal academic papers like dissertations or theses, it's best to avoid using "really" altogether. Instead, opt for more formal language and vocabulary to maintain the tone and credibility of your work.
Q: Can I use "really" in academic writing to express surprise or excitement?
A: While "really" can be used to express surprise or excitement in informal writing, it's not the best choice for academic writing. In academic contexts, it's better to use more objective language and avoid emotional tone.
Q: How often can I use "really" in a single academic paragraph?
A: It's best to limit your use of "really" to no more than once per paragraph, and ideally, no more than a few times in an entire essay. Overusing "really" can make your writing seem repetitive and less engaging.
Sources
- Swales John, Feak Christine. Academic Writing for Graduate Students. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2012.
- “Academic writing guide”. Site: Purdue Online Writing Lab – purdue.edu
- Hyland Ken. Academic Discourse: English in a Global Context. London: Continuum, 2009.
- “Tips for formal writing”. Site: BBC Learning English – bbc.com
