richtig

Richtig is a German word with primary senses as an adjective meaning “correct” or “right” and as an adverb meaning “correctly” or “properly.” It expresses accuracy, suitability, or conformity with facts, rules, or expectations. In everyday speech, “Richtig!” can function as an interjection equivalent to “That’s right!”

The term derives from the Germanic root behind “recht,” meaning right, proper, or straight. The suffix -ig forms adjectives, producing the sense of something characterized by being right. The related noun “Richtigkeit” denotes correctness or accuracy, while “Richtigstellung” refers to a correction or rectification.

Usage and forms: As an adjective, “richtig” describes something true or proper and is often used predicatively: “Die Antwort ist richtig.” When used attributively before a noun with a definite article, it becomes “richtige,” as in “der richtige Weg” (the right way). As an adverb, it means “correctly”: “Du hast das richtig gemacht.” Common expressions include “richtig liegen” (to be right about something) and “richtig und ehrlich” (proper and honest). It contrasts with “falsch” (false) in evaluating statements, actions, or results.

Derivatives and context: The noun forms include “Richtigkeit” (correctness, accuracy) and “Richtigstellung” (correction). The word is widely used across German-speaking regions in education, media, and daily conversation, maintaining a clear sense of accuracy and propriety in discourse.