When someone says "really?" in response to something you've said, it often indicates surprise, disbelief, or skepticism. How you respond can depend on the context and the tone in which they said it. Here are a few ways you can respond:
Clarify or provide more information: If they seem genuinely curious or unsure, you can elaborate on what you said to reinforce your point. For example, "Yes, it's true. I double-checked the data, and the results were conclusive."
Give evidence or examples: Offer supporting evidence or examples to back up your statement. This can help to strengthen your argument and alleviate any doubts they may have. For instance, "Absolutely! The research study cited three independent sources, and all of them reached the same conclusion."
Use humor: If the tone seems light-hearted or playful, you can respond with a bit of humor. For instance, "Yep, really! Surprising, right? But that's what the facts say."
Ask why they are surprised: In a non-confrontational manner, you can ask why they find your statement surprising. This can open up a dialogue and give you a chance to address their concerns. For example, "Is there something specific that you find surprising about what I said?"
Avoid being defensive: If the tone seems skeptical or negative, it's essential not to be defensive. Stay calm and composed and try to provide additional information or context to support your statement.
Encourage discussion: You can invite them to share their thoughts or opinions on the matter. This can lead to a constructive conversation. For example, "What are your thoughts on this? I'd love to hear your perspective."
Remember, how you respond may vary depending on the situation and the person you are talking to. The key is to remain respectful and open to discussion.