actually / really
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actually
Used as a modal particle to introduce a question, express curiosity, or emphasize a slight contrast. It often makes a statement sound more thoughtful or less direct.
Was machst du hier eigentlich?
What are you actually doing here?
actually
Expresses what is really or actually the case, in contrast to what it seems or what was said.
Er heißt eigentlich Robert, aber alle nennen ihn Rob.
His name is actually Robert, but everyone calls him Rob.
originally
Refers to the original state or the original intention.
Eigentlich wollte ich Arzt werden, aber dann habe ich Jura studiert.
Originally, I wanted to become a doctor, but then I studied law.
The word 'eigentlich' is related to 'eigen' (own). It refers to the 'eigene' (one's own), that is, the true or original nature of something.
Sein eigentlicher Plan war es, nach dem Studium zu reisen.
His actual plan was to travel after his studies.
The pattern 'Eigentlich ..., aber ...' (Actually/Originally ..., but ...) is very common. It is used to express a contrast between an original intention and reality.
Eigentlich wollte ich heute Sport machen, aber ich bin zu müde.
Actually, I wanted to exercise today, but I'm too tired.
In questions, 'eigentlich' often makes the question more polite, less direct, or introduces a new topic. It expresses curiosity in a friendly way.
Wie spät ist es eigentlich?
What time is it actually?
As an adverb meaning 'actually', 'eigentlich' often comes after the verb and the subject. It emphasizes that a piece of information is the true or correct one.
Sie kommt eigentlich aus Spanien, lebt aber schon lange in Deutschland.
She actually comes from Spain, but she has lived in Germany for a long time.
because
Denn and eigentlich can make a question sound curious and less direct. Denn is more strongly connected to the situation currently in view, while eigentlich asks more about background information or something that has not yet been mentioned. Use denn when there is a current reason and eigentlich when expressing belated curiosity.
Wir sprechen schon lange miteinander, wie heißt du eigentlich?
We’ve been talking for a long time. What’s your name, anyway?
Du bist neu in der Gruppe, wie heißt du denn?
You’re new to the group. What’s your name, then?
