downright / proper
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downright
Used as an adverb to intensify a statement and means something like 'positively,' 'practically,' or 'really.' It often expresses a surprising or extreme degree.
Nach der Absage entwickelte sie eine regelrechte Abneigung gegen das Projekt.
After the cancellation, she developed a downright aversion to the project.
proper
In accordance with the rules; correct and orderly. This meaning is less common and is often replaced by 'regelgerecht' (in accordance with the rules).
Der Vorgang wurde vom Notar als regelrecht bestätigt.
The procedure was confirmed by the notary as proper.
The word is made up of 'Regel' (rule) and 'recht' (right/proper). The literal meaning is 'in accordance with the rules.' From this, the now more common figurative meaning 'geradezu' (downright) or 'förmlich' (positively) developed to describe an extreme degree.
Der kleine Funke löste eine regelrechte Explosion aus.
The small spark triggered a downright explosion.
In its most common meaning, 'regelrecht' (downright) is used as an adverb for emphasis. It comes directly before the noun or adjective it emphasizes and expresses that something has reached a surprising or extreme degree.
Die Kinder veranstalteten eine regelrechte Wasserschlacht im Garten.
The children staged a downright water fight in the garden.
'Regelrecht' (downright) is often combined with nouns that describe a strong, often negative, development. Typical examples include: 'eine regelrechte Panik' (downright panic), 'ein regelrechter Boom' (a veritable boom), or 'eine regelrechte Sucht' (a real addiction).
Um die letzten Konzertkarten brach eine regelrechte Panik aus.
A downright panic broke out over the last concert tickets.
The meaning 'den Regeln entsprechend' (in accordance with the rules) is rare and formal. It occurs almost only in legal or official contexts. In all other cases, 'regelrecht' almost always means 'geradezu' (downright).
Der Schiedsrichter entschied, dass das Tor regelrecht erzielt wurde.
The referee decided that the goal had been scored properly.
really
Wirklich neutrally confirms or emphasizes that a statement is true. Regelrecht also intensifies a statement, but often highlights a surprising or exceptional degree. Use wirklich for simple confirmation; regelrecht is a better fit for an unexpectedly high degree.
Der Saal war am Abend regelrecht überfüllt.
The hall was downright overcrowded that evening.
Der Saal war am Abend wirklich voll.
The hall was really full that evening.
