01
genau
exactly
As an adverb: exactly, precisely, right on the mark.
example
Das ist genau das, was ich gemeint habe.
That is exactly what I meant.
genau
exact / precise
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Adjective or adverb
'Genau' can be used as an adjective before a noun or as an unchanging adverb. As an adjective, it is declined; as an adverb, it always stays the same.
EXAMPLE
Das ist eine genaue Kopie des Originals.
That is an exact copy of the original.
As an agreeing answer
In conversation, 'Genau!' is very commonly used as a short, confirming answer. It means 'Richtig!' (Right!) or 'Das stimmt exakt!' (That's exactly correct!) and can stand on its own.
EXAMPLE
Du meinst also, wir sollten den anderen Weg nehmen? – Genau!
So you mean we should take the other way? – Exactly!
Typical combinations
As an adverb for emphasis, 'genau' often stands directly before the word it specifies. Common combinations are 'genau das' (exactly that), 'genau hier' (right here), 'genau so' (exactly like that), or 'genau richtig' (exactly right).
EXAMPLE
Das ist genau der Pullover, den ich kaufen wollte.
That is exactly the sweater I wanted to buy.
Typical combinations
As an adjective, 'genau' often describes things that require precision. Typical combinations are 'eine genaue Beschreibung' (a precise description), 'genaue Anweisungen' (precise instructions), or 'eine genaue Uhrzeit' (an exact time).
EXAMPLE
Für die Montage brauchen wir eine genaue Anleitung.
For the assembly, we need precise instructions.
Compare with
genau vs richtig
correct / right
'genau' and 'richtig' can both show that something is correct. But 'genau' mainly emphasizes precision: an exact time, an exact number, or a precise description. 'richtig' more often says that something is true, error-free, or appropriate, for example 'eine richtige Antwort' (a correct answer) or 'die richtige Entscheidung' (the right decision). In short answers, both can sound similar: 'Genau!' and 'Richtig!' often express agreement. There is a risk of confusion because both have to do with correctness. Remember: 'genau' is about exactness, while 'richtig' is about truth or suitability.
genau
Kannst du mir bitte die genaue Adresse der Praxis schicken?
Could you please send me the exact address of the practice?
richtig
Bei der Prüfung war nur eine Antwort richtig.
In the exam, only one answer was correct.
In real life
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