01
richtig
correct
Accurate, error-free, or corresponding to the truth.
example
Das ist die richtige Antwort.
That is the correct answer.
richtig
correct / right
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Richtig' comes from 'richten' (to direct/set right) and 'Richtung' (direction). The basic idea is that something is aligned in the correct direction or made straight. This helps you understand the meanings 'correct' and 'suitable'.
EXAMPLE
Bitte zeig mir die richtige Richtung zum Bahnhof.
Please show me the right direction to the train station.
Context clue: emphasis
When 'richtig' comes before an adjective or adverb and is not declined, it means 'very' or 'really'. This use is more colloquial.
EXAMPLE
Der Film war richtig spannend.
The film was really exciting.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'suitable', 'richtig' is often used in reference to people, decisions, or moments: 'der richtige Partner' (the right partner), 'die richtige Wahl' (the right choice), 'zur richtigen Zeit' (at the right time).
EXAMPLE
Es ist wichtig, die richtige Entscheidung zu treffen.
It is important to make the right decision.
Context clue: 'real'
The meaning 'real' or 'full-fledged' is often used to create a contrast with something temporary, incomplete, or an imitation.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Ausbildung hat er endlich einen richtigen Job gefunden.
After his training, he finally found a proper job.
Compare with
richtig vs sehr
very
'sehr' and 'richtig' can both be used for strong emphasis. In sentences like 'sehr gut' (very good) and 'richtig gut' (really good), the meaning is very similar. 'sehr' is neutral and fits in almost all situations. 'richtig' often sounds a bit more conversational and lively; it emphasizes that something really is strongly or clearly that way. In formal texts, 'sehr' is usually more natural; in everyday language, 'richtig' is very common.
richtig
Nach dem Training war Max richtig erschöpft.
After training, Max was really exhausted.
sehr
Hannes findet den neuen Supermarkt sehr praktisch.
Hannes finds the new supermarket very convenient.
In real life
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