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im Prinzip

in principle; basically

adverb im prin-TSEEP Rare
Communication Expressions

Usage Note

im Prinzip is a very frequent spoken filler meaning 'basically' or 'in principle', often used where the speaker agrees in theory but may have reservations in practice. Overlaps with eigentlich in colloquial use.

Examples

"Im Prinzip ist das eine gute Idee, aber die Details müssen noch geklärt werden."

Natural Translation

In principle it's a good idea, but the details still need to be worked out.

Literal Translation

In the principle, that is a good idea, but the details must still clarified be.

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