Lately I have become painfully aware of a habit of American English speaking people: using the word "really" to emphasize what they are trying to say.
This habit is not limited to uneducated, or rural, or cultural groups. In fact, I listen to NPR frequently and have found that in interviews with scientists, politicians, movie-reviewers and ordinary working-class people, the habit is consistent.
Once you start listening for it, you will hear it everywhere. It seems like a terrible habit, since the thing people are usually saying would work fine without adding "really" in front of it, or two "really"s..or even three in some cases.
Some examples:
I want to help, I really do.
Now I really must go.
I really don't mind.
He really likes you.
I really and truly am in love this time.
a really hot fire
I'm really sorry.
She was driving really fast.
Do any of you english speakers who are NOT in the U.S. use this? or is it limited to us?