Im Ernst
Example: Meinst du das im Ernst oder machst du nur Spaß?
Definition
"Im Ernst" is a German expression used to ask or state whether something is meant seriously or genuinely, often to clarify if a statement or question is sincere rather than a joke or exaggeration.
Etymology
The phrase "im Ernst" in German literally means 'in seriousness.' It combines the preposition 'im' (in the) with 'Ernst,' which means seriousness or earnestness. The expression emphasizes the genuine, solemn intent behind a statement.
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"Im Ernst" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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