real / fair
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real
Actually existing, real, or corresponding to the true value. It is often used to emphasize the difference from a merely apparent or nominal value.
Nach Abzug der Inflation beträgt das reelle Wachstum der Wirtschaft nur ein Prozent.
After deducting inflation, the real growth of the economy is only one percent.
Although 'reell' looks like the English word 'real', its use is more limited. It is often used for economic values or fair behavior, but not for people or concrete objects in the sense of 'genuine' or 'real'.
Das ist ein reelles Angebot, du solltest es annehmen.
That is a fair offer; you should accept it.
In the meaning 'tatsächlich' (actual/real), you will almost always find 'reell' in economic contexts. It describes a value after deducting factors such as inflation.
Der reelle Lohn ist das, was man nach Abzug der Inflation wirklich mehr zur Verfügung hat.
The real wage is what you truly have available after deducting inflation.
When 'reell' describes a person or an offer, it means 'fair' or 'honest'. It is often used in business to express trustworthiness.
Der Händler machte uns einen sehr reellen Preis für das gebrauchte Auto.
The dealer gave us a very fair price for the used car.
The meaning of 'reell' as a mathematical term is strictly limited to this field. You can recognize it from words such as 'Zahl' (number), 'Funktion' (function), or 'Lösung' (solution).
Die Gleichung hat keine reelle Lösung.
The equation has no real solution.
really
'wirklich' and 'reell' can both express that something is not merely apparent. 'wirklich' is very general in everyday language and can confirm or emphasize a statement. 'reell' is an adjective and sounds more factual. It is often used with values, chances, costs, or advantages when you want to say that they actually exist and are not just on paper. In normal everyday sentences, 'wirklich' is usually more natural; with numbers, possibilities, or economic topics, 'reell' can sound more precise.
Nach dem Gespräch sieht die Verkäuferin eine reelle Chance auf den neuen Job.
After the conversation, the saleswoman sees a real chance of getting the new job.
Meine Kollegin kommt morgen wirklich zum Training, nicht nur zum Zuschauen.
My colleague is really coming to training tomorrow, not just to watch.