If you want to know how to say really in German, the most common word is wirklich. German also uses echt in casual speech and tatsächlich when emphasizing that something is actually true.
“Really” in German is usually wirklich, pronounced approximately VEERK-likh. For example, Das ist wirklich gut means “That is really good.”
How Do You Say Really in German?
The standard German adverb for really is wirklich. It can intensify an adjective, confirm a statement, or express surprise. For a stronger reaction of amazement, compare wow in German.
Wirklich? by itself means “Really?” or “Is that true?”
Meaning: Really / Truly
Different German Words for Really
Use wirklich in most situations. The alternatives add a casual, factual, or intensity-focused meaning.
1. Wirklich — Really
Wirklich is the neutral and most widely useful word. Das ist wirklich schön means “That is really beautiful.”
2. Echt — Really / Truly
Echt is common in casual spoken German. It can mean “really,” “truly,” or “genuine.”
3. Tatsächlich — Actually
Tatsächlich means “actually” or “indeed.” It emphasizes a fact and sounds more formal than echt.
4. Sehr — Very
Sehr means “very,” not literally “really,” but it often translates English “really” when intensifying an adjective.
Really in German: Quick Comparison
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| German | Meaning | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| wirklich | really / truly | Neutral, general use |
| echt | really / genuinely | Casual conversation |
| tatsächlich | actually / indeed | Factual or formal emphasis |
| sehr | very | Strong adjective intensity |
How to Pronounce Wirklich
Wirklich is pronounced approximately VEERK-likh. The German w sounds like English “v,” and the final ch is a soft sound made near the roof of the mouth.
Example Sentences Using Really in German
Use: Emphasizing an opinion.
Use: Showing surprise or asking for confirmation.
Use: Casual spoken German.
Frequently Asked Questions About Really in German
Tap a question below to see the answer.
How do you say really in German?
The main word is wirklich.
What does wirklich mean?
Wirklich means “really,” “truly,” or “indeed.”
What is the difference between wirklich and echt?
Wirklich is neutral and widely used. Echt is more casual and conversational.
How do you say really?
Say Wirklich? with rising intonation to ask “Really?”
Can sehr mean really?
Sehr means “very,” but it can translate English “really” before an adjective, such as “really important.”
Summary: How to Say Really in German
The main word for really in German is wirklich. Use echt casually, tatsächlich for “actually,” and sehr when you mean “very.”
