Dictionary
eigentlich
German → American English
American English
actually
A German adverb used to express something that is really the case, in fact, or as a softener/contrast marker.
Eigentlich wollte ich heute zu Hause bleiben."Eigentlich" is very common in spoken German and often softens a statement or introduces a contrast. It does not always mean "actually" in the sense of "currently"; in many contexts it means "really," "in fact," or "to be honest."
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Frequently asked questions
What does "eigentlich" mean in English?
"Eigentlich" usually means "actually," "in fact," or "really," depending on the context.
How do you use "eigentlich" in a sentence?
It is often used to soften a statement, ask a polite question, or express contrast: "Eigentlich wollte ich früher gehen."
Is "eigentlich" formal or informal?
It is neutral, but very common in everyday spoken German.
Does "eigentlich" always translate as "actually"?
No. Depending on the sentence, it can also mean "really," "in fact," or "to be honest."