Meaning and Usage
"実際" (じっさい) means "in fact" or "actually" and is used to emphasize the reality or truth of a situation, often contrasting with assumptions, theories, or appearances.
Common Contexts
It frequently appears in everyday conversation and writing when clarifying what really happens or what is true beyond expectations or plans.
Collocations and Patterns
- 実際に (じっさいに): "actually" or "in practice" — used to describe something done or experienced firsthand.
- 実際のところ: "in fact" or "as a matter of fact" — used to introduce a truthful statement that may contrast with prior beliefs.
- 実際は: "the reality is" — used to reveal the true state of affairs.
Register and Nuance
"実際" is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. It adds emphasis to factual information.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "実際" with "本当" (ほんとう), which also means "truth" or "really." "実際" often implies a comparison between theory and reality or expectation and fact, while "本当" is a more general term for truth.