German Phrase
Wir sind eine richtig enge Familie.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a strong emotional bond and sense of unity within a family unit. The word 'enge' literally translates to 'narrow' or 'tight', but in this context, it describes the emotional closeness of relationships. Using 'richtig' adds emphasis, similar to saying 'really' or 'truly' in English.
When to use
Use this phrase when describing your family dynamics to others in a social or personal setting. It is perfect for explaining why you spend a lot of time together or share personal details with your relatives.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WirsindeinerichtigengeFamilie
Sein (sind)
The verb 'sein' (to be) is conjugated here for the first person plural 'wir'.
Adjective Ending (-e)
The adjective 'eng' takes the ending '-e' to agree with the feminine singular noun 'Familie' following an indefinite article.
🗨In Conversation
Verbringst du viel Zeit mit deinen Geschwistern?
Do you spend a lot of time with your siblings?
Ja, wir sind eine richtig enge Familie.
Yes, we are a really close family.
✕Common Mistakes
Wir sind eine richtig nah Familie.
While 'nah' means 'near', 'eng' is the idiomatic choice for describing close-knit relationships in German.
Wir sind eine richtig enge Familien.
Ensure you use the singular 'Familie' when referring to one family unit.
↔Alternatives
Wir stehen uns sehr nahe.
We are very close to each other.
Wir sind eine unzertrennliche Familie.
We are an inseparable family.
Cultural Tip
In German-speaking cultures, family is often viewed as a private, highly supportive inner circle. Describing a family as 'eng' implies not just frequent contact, but a high degree of mutual reliance and trust that is central to German social structures.