genau
Translation
exact, precise, exactly
Examples
Die Uhr geht genau.
The clock is accurate.
Das ist genau das Problem.
That is exactly the problem.
Genau! Das meine ich auch.
Exactly! That's what I think too.
Grammar Patterns
Genau! (interjection) Exactly! / That's right! Genau! Das ist richtig.
to take ((sth.)) seriously/literally Man darf das nicht so genau nehmen.
to know ((it)) exactly/for sure Ich weiß es nicht genau.
Similar Words
Synonyms: exakt, präzise; Antonyms: ungenau, ungefähr
Etymology
From Middle High German 'genou' (narrow, close), implying close attention to detail.
Memory Tips
Use 'Genau!' as a standalone exclamation to agree with someone ('Exactly!').