現に

げんに

actually, really

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"現に" (げんに) is an adverb used to emphasize that something is true or actually happening. It often appears in formal or written contexts but can also be used in spoken Japanese to stress reality or fact.

Nuance

Using "現に" implies that the speaker is presenting evidence or a fact that supports their statement. It can be translated as "actually," "really," or "in fact."

Common Collocations and Patterns

  • 現に + [verb]: to state that something really happened or is true.
  • 現に + [subject] + [verb]: emphasizes the subject's real action or state.

Register and Politeness

"現に" is neutral to slightly formal and is suitable for both written and spoken language, especially when making a factual point.

Learner Tips

Do not confuse "現に" with similar words like "実に" (じつに), which means "indeed" or "truly" but is more about emphasizing degree or feeling rather than factual reality. "現に" focuses on actual occurrence or truth.

Example Sentences

げんにかれはそのもんだいをかいけつした。

He actually solved that problem.

げんにわたしもそのはなしをきいたことがある。

I have actually heard that story myself.

げんにかのじょはやくそくをまもった。

She really kept her promise.