eigentlich
quite
The word 'eigentlich' is used in German to express the concept of 'quite' in English. However, its usage is more nuanced and often implies a sense of 'actually' or 'in truth'. For example, 'Er ist eigentlich ein guter Mensch' translates to 'He is quite a good person', but with a connotation of 'He is actually a good person'.
Example sentences using: eigentlich
Wir könnten eigentlich ins Kino gehen.
We could actually go to the cinema.
In this instance, 'eigentlich' is being used to gently suggest an activity or idea. It reflects a sense of possibility rather than certainty.
Was machst du eigentlich?
What are you actually doing?
In this case, the word 'eigentlich' is used to express a sense of curiosity or suspicion about what the other person is doing.
Eigentlich mag ich Katzen nicht.
Actually, I don't like cats.
This sentence implies that despite any impressions previously given, the speaker is confessing they don't like cats. The use of 'eigentlich' reveals their real feelings.