eigenlijk — meaning in English: actually

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for actually

eigenlijk

waakzaam

belangrijk

uitdrukken

geaccepteerd

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Dutch for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'eigenlijk' in everyday conversations to clarify their thoughts or provide additional context. For instance, during a casual chat about weekend plans, someone might say, 'Eigenlijk, ik had iets anders gepland,' meaning 'Actually, I had something else planned.' It's also common in discussions where someone is correcting or refining a statement for clarity.

Synonyms & nuances

'Eigenlijk' can be synonymous with 'werkelijk' or 'feitelijk,' but it carries a more conversational tone. While 'werkelijk' might be better suited for formal contexts, 'eigenlijk' is the go-to for casual conversations, making it more relatable and effective for everyday use.

Culture

'Eigenlijk' has roots in the Dutch word 'eigen,' meaning 'own,' which reflects a deeper sense of personal truth or reality. The word evolved to express not just ownership but also the act of revealing the true essence of a situation. This mirrors a cultural tendency in the Netherlands to value honesty and directness in communication.

FAQ

Q.What does 'eigenlijk' mean in English?

'Eigenlijk' translates to 'actually' in English, used to express a clarification or a reality that contrasts with previous statements.

Q.Can 'eigenlijk' be used in formal writing?

While 'eigenlijk' is primarily used in informal settings, it can appear in neutral or semi-formal writing, especially when aiming for a conversational tone.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 'eigenlijk'?

A common mistake is using 'eigenlijk' too literally as a direct translation of 'actually' without considering the context. It's important to ensure it fits the conversation naturally.

Learn dutch with Maspeak →

Dutch Vocabulary