01
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
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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 both mean that something is right and without mistakes. 'genau' often emphasizes precision, for example with numbers, descriptions, or work steps. 'korrekt' more often emphasizes that something matches the rules or the facts. With answers, data, or solutions, both can fit. They can be confused because a precise answer is often also correct. When it is about precision, 'genau' sounds more natural; when it is about being right or rule-compliant, 'korrekt' fits better.
korrekt
Die Antwort des Schülers ist korrekt.
The student's answer is correct.
genau
Hannah hat die Zeiten für das Training genau notiert.
Hannah noted the times for the training precisely.
In real life
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