an sich
Translation
in itself, per se, as such, actually
Examples
Die Idee ist an sich gut.
The idea in itself is good.
An sich mag ich keine Schokolade.
Actually, I don't like chocolate.
Grammar Patterns
an sich ... in itself ... The idea is good in itself.
Similar Words
im Grunde (basically), per se, grundsätzlich (fundamentally)
Etymology
From 'an' (on, at) + 'sich' (itself, oneself). Literally means 'on itself'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as evaluating something 'in isolation' or 'on its own merits'. 'An sich' = 'on itself'.