German Phrase
Ja, genau.
Meaning
Literally 'Yes, exactly.' It is used to show strong agreement with what someone has just said, confirming that the statement is spot‑on.
When to use
Use it in informal conversations when you want to echo a partner’s opinion, confirm a fact, or react to a suggestion that you think is spot‑on. It works both in spoken dialogue and in casual written chat.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ja,genau
Ja
An affirmative particle meaning 'yes'. It can stand alone or start a sentence.
genau
An adverb meaning 'exactly', 'precisely' or 'right on the money'. It often follows a statement to confirm it.
Comma
In German a short pause is marked with a comma before an interjection like 'genau' that reinforces the previous clause.
🗨In Conversation
Der Film war wirklich spannend, besonders das Ende.
The movie was really exciting, especially the ending.
Ja, genau.
Yes, exactly.
✕Common Mistakes
Ja, genau?
The phrase is a statement, not a question. Adding a question mark changes the meaning to ‘Is that exactly right?’
Ja genau.
In writing a comma is required to separate the affirmation from the confirming adverb.
Ja, genaues.
‘Genaues’ is an adjective; the correct adverb is ‘genau’. Using the adjective makes the sentence ungrammatical.
↔Alternatives
Genau.
Exactly.
Stimmt genau.
That's exactly right.
Richtig.
Right.
Cultural Tip
‘Ja, genau.’ is completely informal; avoid it in formal business meetings or when speaking to someone you don’t know well. In northern Germany speakers may add a short ‘ja’ without the comma (‘Ja genau!’) while in the south a slightly longer pause is common. The tone of voice—bright and confirming—helps convey genuine agreement.