Eigentlich Translations, meanings and synonyms

"Eigentlich" is mainly used as adverb meaning "actually", "really" or "in fact". It is also used as adjective and particle.

Essential properties of "eigentlich"

Its most important properties are:

Properties as Adjective

Regular

Meanings of "eigentlich" + more translations, synonyms and antonyms

It has the meanings and uses detailed below:

1.) "Actually, truly, in fact"

"Eigentlich", when used with this meaning, acts as adverb.

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Er ist eigentlich ein netter Kerl.He is actually a nice guy.
  2. Ich wollte eigentlich heute früher aufstehen.I actually wanted to get up earlier today.
  3. Eigentlich habe ich keine Zeit dafür.Actually, I don't have time for that.

2.) "Real, true, original"

"Eigentlich", when used with this meaning, acts as adjective.

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Das ist nicht sein eigentlicher Name.That is not his real name.
  2. Der eigentliche Grund dafür ist noch unbekannt.The actual reason for that is still unknown.
  3. Die eigentliche Bedeutung des Wortes ist umstritten.The actual meaning of the word is disputed.

3.) "Expresses surprise, doubt, or softens a statement"

"Eigentlich", when used with this meaning, acts as particle.

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Eigentlich hast du ja Recht.Actually, you are right.
  2. Warum bist du eigentlich hier?Why are you actually here?
  3. Eigentlich wollte ich das nicht sagen.Actually, I didn't want to say that.
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