Meaning
Expressing surprise or seeking confirmation.
Cultural Background
Czechs often use 'Opravdu?' as a way to bridge gaps in conversation. It's a sign of 'active listening' (aktivní naslouchání). In Slovakia, the equivalent is 'Naozaj?'. While 'Opravdu' is understood, 'Naozaj' is the native Slovak form. In intellectual circles, 'Opravdu' is often replaced by 'Vskutku' to sound more sophisticated and deliberate. Younger Czechs might find 'Opravdu?' slightly formal and prefer 'Fakt?' or 'Vážně?'.
The Eyebrow Raise
In Czechia, 'Opravdu?' is often accompanied by a slight raise of the eyebrows. This non-verbal cue makes you sound much more native.
Don't Overuse
If you say 'Opravdu?' after every single sentence your partner says, you might start to sound like a broken record or like you don't believe anything they say.
Meaning
Expressing surprise or seeking confirmation.
The Eyebrow Raise
In Czechia, 'Opravdu?' is often accompanied by a slight raise of the eyebrows. This non-verbal cue makes you sound much more native.
Don't Overuse
If you say 'Opravdu?' after every single sentence your partner says, you might start to sound like a broken record or like you don't believe anything they say.
Intonation Matters
A rising intonation means 'Is it true?', while a falling intonation can mean 'I am truly impressed' or 'I am being sarcastic'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to express surprise.
A: Vyhrál jsem v loterii! B: ________?
'Opravdu?' is the perfect reaction to someone winning the lottery.
Which sentence uses 'opravdu' as an adverb for emphasis?
Choose the correct sentence:
Here 'opravdu' modifies the adjective 'hezký' to mean 'really nice'.
Match the phrase to the correct social setting.
Where would you most likely hear 'Fakt jo?' instead of 'Opravdu?'
'Fakt jo?' is very informal/slangy.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
Petr: 'Zítra musím do práce už v pět ráno.' Vy: '________? To je hrozně brzy!'
You are reacting to surprising news about his work schedule.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Ways to say 'Really?' in Czech
Formal
- • Skutečně?
- • Vskutku
Neutral
- • Opravdu?
- • Je to tak?
Informal
- • Vážně?
- • Fakt?
Slang
- • Nekecej!
- • Fakt jo?
Practice Bank
4 exercisesA: Vyhrál jsem v loterii! B: ________?
'Opravdu?' is the perfect reaction to someone winning the lottery.
Choose the correct sentence:
Here 'opravdu' modifies the adjective 'hezký' to mean 'really nice'.
Where would you most likely hear 'Fakt jo?' instead of 'Opravdu?'
'Fakt jo?' is very informal/slangy.
Petr: 'Zítra musím do práce už v pět ráno.' Vy: '________? To je hrozně brzy!'
You are reacting to surprising news about his work schedule.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss, your grandmother, or a stranger on the street.
Yes! 'Opravdu velký' means 'really big' or 'very big'.
'Opravdu' is neutral/standard, while 'Fakt' is informal/slang. Use 'Fakt' with friends.
No, it is an adverb and its form is fixed.
You say 'Ani ne' or 'Vlastně ani ne'.
Yes, but 'Naozaj' is more common there. Czechs and Slovaks understand both perfectly.
Yes, for example: 'Ty tam jdeš, opravdu?' (You are going there, really?)
Yes, like most Czech 'r' sounds, it should be slightly trilled.
Yes, with a sharp, short intonation, it can mean 'Are you for real right now?'
'Skutečně' is generally considered the most formal equivalent.
Related Phrases
Vážně?
synonymSeriously?
Fakt?
synonymReally? / Fact?
Skutečně?
synonymIndeed? / Truly?
Naozaj?
similarReally? (Slovak)
To snad ne!
builds onI hope not! / No way!
Je to tak?
similarIs it so?
