eigentlich

Based on: eigene (r,s,n,m)
Goethe A2 Particle
  1. has lots of possible translations, but usually it is NOT "actually"
  2. by the way
  3. actual, real
1.

has lots of possible translations, but usually it is NOT "actually"

("eigentlich" expresses a "normal" a broad picture as opposed to a particular instance, read the article for details)
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Examples
  • Eigentlich mag ich Bier, aber heute habe ich irgendwie keinen Appetit drauf.
  • Normally/Usually/Generally I like beer but today I kind of don't feel like it.
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2.

by the way

(in questions)
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Examples
  • "Paris ist echt ein schönes, kleines Städtchen. Schade, dass es keinen Fluss hat.""Wie bitte? Warst du eigentlich mal da?"
  • "Paris is a nice little borough. A pity there's no river.""What?! Have you actually ever been there?"
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3.

actual, real

(As an adjective, it expresses the idea of "core, real, actual". )
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Examples
  • Das eigentliche Problem ist, dass dir Kochen keinen Spaß macht.
  • The actual problem is that you don't enjoy cooking.
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Word Family

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Sources for Etymology:

My Articles

The meaning and use of – “eigentlich”

Dictionaries say "eigentlich" is "actually". But they're not a great match because "eigentlich" has a completely different vibe and most learners use it wrong.

Vocab: eigentlich, uneigentlich

Read article →

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How many meanings does the German word 'eigentlich' have?

eigentlich has 3 distinct meanings: 1. has lots of possible translations, but usually it is NOT "actually" , 2. by the way , 3. actual, real.

What is 'eigentlich' related to?

The word 'eigentlich' is related to eigene (r,s,n,m).

Where can I learn more about 'eigentlich'?

Here are some articles where you can learn more about 'eigentlich':

The meaning and use of – “eigentlich”
Dictionaries say "eigentlich" is "actually". But they're not a great match because "eigentlich" has a completely different vibe and most learners use it wrong.
Vocab: eigentlich, uneigentlich
Read article