proper / considerable
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really / properly
Used as an adverb to express that something happens to a considerable degree or very thoroughly. It has the meaning of 'ordentlich' (properly), 'tüchtig' (thoroughly), or 'ziemlich' (quite).
Nach der langen Wanderung hatten wir gehörig Hunger.
After the long hike, we were really hungry.
proper / deserved
Describes something that is appropriate, fitting, or deserved, often in connection with a consequence or reprimand.
Für sein Verhalten hat er eine gehörige Standpauke bekommen.
He got a proper telling-off for his behavior.
The adjective 'gehörig' is related to the verb 'gehören' (to belong), but in the sense of 'sich gehören' (to be proper/fitting). It expresses that something takes place to a fitting or appropriate degree—and that degree is often very great.
Er hat sich mit seinem unhöflichen Kommentar gehörig blamiert.
He really embarrassed himself with his rude comment.
'gehörig' is very often used as an adverb to intensify another word. In this function it is not declined and means 'ziemlich' (quite), 'ordentlich' (properly/really), or 'sehr' (very).
Wir haben uns bei der Feier gehörig amüsiert.
We really enjoyed ourselves at the celebration.
In the meaning of 'verdient' (deserved) or 'angemessen' (appropriate), 'gehörig' often comes before nouns that describe a kind of consequence or reprimand, for example 'eine gehörige Lektion' (a proper lesson), 'eine gehörige Strafe' (a proper punishment), or 'eine gehörige Portion' (a generous portion).
Für diese freche Antwort hat er eine gehörige Lektion verdient.
He deserves a proper lesson for that cheeky answer.
neat / proper
“Ordentlich” and “gehörig” can express a high degree in colloquial speech. “Ordentlich” is the more usual, neutral choice for this, while “gehörig” is generally stronger and sounds somewhat more elevated. Both work in an emphatic statement, but “gehörig” puts more emphasis on the effect or thoroughness.
Nach der langen Wanderung waren wir gehörig müde.
After the long hike, we were really tired.
Nach der langen Wanderung waren wir ordentlich müde.
After the long hike, we were quite tired.
