Membel
German ADJECTIVE B2 Rank 5053

faktisch

de facto

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Meanings

01

faktisch

de facto

Describes a state that exists in reality, even if it is not officially or formally recognized. It means roughly 'in reality' or 'actually'.

example

Obwohl sie nicht die Abteilungsleiterin ist, ist sie die faktische Chefin des Teams.

Although she is not the department head, she is the de facto boss of the team.

Visual example for faktisch: faktisch

Usage tips

Compare with

near_synonym

faktisch vs wirklich

really

'wirklich' and 'faktisch' can both show that something is the case in reality. 'wirklich' is general and suitable for everyday use. You use it to confirm or emphasize something. 'faktisch' sounds more factual and often means: in practice, this is how it is, even if officially it may be called something else or not stated clearly. It fits well with rules, situations, work, or organization. Memory tip: 'wirklich' simply says that something is true; 'faktisch' often says how the situation works in reality.

Visual example for wirklich
faktisch

Karim leitet das Projekt faktisch allein, obwohl sein Chef den Titel hat.

Karim is effectively running the project by himself, even though his boss has the title.

wirklich

Sie freut sich wirklich auf die Reise morgen.

She is really looking forward to the trip tomorrow.

Open full lesson: wirklich →

In real life

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