Dictionary
really
German → American English
American English
really
An adverb used to emphasize truth, reality, or degree; in German often translated as wirklich or tatsächlich.
Bist du wirklich sicher?In German, wirklich and tatsächlich often mean “really,” but wirklich is more common in everyday speech. Use tatsächlich when something is factual or surprising, and sehr when you mean “very,” not “really.”
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Frequently asked questions
What is the German word for “really”?
The most common German translations are wirklich and tatsächlich, depending on the context.
What is the difference between wirklich and tatsächlich?
Wirklich is common in everyday speech and means “really” or “truly.” Tatsächlich is often used for facts, confirmation, or emphasis that something is indeed true.
Can “really” mean “very” in German?
Sometimes, but usually German uses sehr for “very.” Wirklich is closer to “really” or “truly.”
How do you say “Is that really true?” in German?
You can say: Ist das wirklich wahr?