korrekt
correct
In accordance with the facts or rules; right and without mistakes.
EXAMPLE
Deine Berechnung des Ergebnisses ist vollkommen korrekt.
Your calculation of the result is completely correct.
korrekt
correct
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Meanings
korrekt
proper
In accordance with social norms and manners; impeccable and decent in behavior.
EXAMPLE
Er blieb auch während der hitzigen Diskussion stets höflich und korrekt.
Even during the heated discussion, he always remained polite and proper.
Usage tips
Context clue
The meaning of 'korrekt' depends on the context. If it refers to facts, rules, or information, it means 'correct'. If it refers to a person's behavior or clothing, it means 'decent' or 'appropriate'.
EXAMPLE
Die Adresse auf dem Brief ist korrekt.
The address on the letter is correct.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'correct', 'korrekt' is often used in contexts like 'eine korrekte Antwort' (a correct answer), 'eine korrekte Aussprache' (correct pronunciation), or 'grammatikalisch korrekt' (grammatically correct).
EXAMPLE
Der Lehrer sagte, meine Lösung sei korrekt.
The teacher said my solution was correct.
Typical collocations
When it comes to behavior, typical combinations are 'korrektes Benehmen' (proper behavior) or 'korrekte Kleidung' (appropriate clothing). A very common expression is also 'politisch korrekt' (politically correct).
EXAMPLE
Für das Vorstellungsgespräch ist korrekte Kleidung wichtig.
Appropriate clothing is important for the job interview.
Subtle meaning
When you describe a person as 'korrekt' (proper/correct), it can also have a slightly negative meaning. It can mean that the person seems very formal, distant, or even a little stiff.
EXAMPLE
Mein neuer Chef ist sehr korrekt, aber nicht besonders herzlich.
My new boss is very proper, but not especially warm.
Compare with
korrekt vs genau
exact / precise
Genau and korrekt can confirm an answer. Korrekt sounds more like an objective assessment: the answer is free of errors and corresponds to the facts. Genau emphasizes more strongly that the answer addresses the point meant. Korrekt fits a matter-of-fact check, while genau is often used for immediate agreement.
korrekt
Korrekt, die Besprechung findet am Dienstag statt.
Correct, the meeting is on Tuesday.
genau
Genau, die Besprechung findet am Dienstag statt.
Exactly, the meeting is on Tuesday.
In real life
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