adjective
so-called
B1
'sogenannt' means 'so-called' or 'so named'. It is a participial adjective derived from 'nennen'. Not gradable (no comparative/superlative). Common attributive use: 'der sogenannte X', often in quotes or with ironic/critical tone. No irregular forms; follows normal adjective declension in German.
Examples
Der Bürgermeister lobte die sogenannte Bürgerinitiative, die viele Freiwillige mobilisierte, weil sie konkrete Probleme ansprach.
The mayor praised the so-called citizens' initiative, which mobilized many volunteers because it addressed concrete problems.
Der sogenannte Experte konnte die Frage nicht beantworten.
The so-called expert couldn't answer the question.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture quotation marks before a noun to signal irony or distance: “so-called”.
Sounds like 'so-guh-nant' — think 'so-called'.
Notes
Often used to express irony or distance from the term that follows. Derived from the participle of 'nennen'.