実は
jitsu-wa[d͡ʑit͡sɨ β̞a̠]
The English phrase "in fact" can be translated into Japanese as 実は (jitsu-wa) or 実際には.
Meaning: actually, in truth (prep_phrase)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 実は | jitsu-wa | [d͡ʑit͡sɨ β̞a̠] (narrow) |
| 実際には | jissai-niwa |
Both terms are used to express that something is true, but they serve different functions. 実は is frequently used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a confession or a surprising piece of information. It is used to reveal a hidden truth or a fact that contradicts what the listener might assume. In contrast, 実際には is used to contrast an ideal or expected situation with how things actually function in practice.
What does it mean word for word?
In the form 実は, the word 実 (jitsu) means "truth" or "reality" and は (wa) is the topic marker. Literally, it translates to "the truth is".
How do you pronounce it?
jitsu-wa
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the concept of 'reality' expressed by 実際 is often contrasted with 'tatemae', the public face or facade that people maintain to keep social harmony.
- The word 実は (jitsu wa) uses the character 実, which also refers to the 'fruit' or 'seed' of a plant. This implies that the 'truth' is the core, fruit-bearing essence of a matter.
- If you are describing a technical process or a scientific result, you should almost always use 実際には rather than 実は, as the latter sounds like you are telling a secret or a juicy piece of gossip.
Examples in context
- 実は、ボストン生まれなの。In fact, I was born in Boston.This sentence shows how to use 実は to reveal personal background.Tatoeba #9817719 by small_snow, translation #2100016 by AlanF_US
- 実は、自分用に買っちゃった。In fact, I bought it for me.This sentence demonstrates using 実は to make a confession about an action.Tatoeba #12144466 by small_snow, translation #11982238 by ddnktr
- 実は、彼のこと好きじゃないの。In fact, I don't like him.This sentence illustrates using 実は to reveal a surprising feeling or truth.Tatoeba #9663179 by small_snow, translation #5137254 by honestlang
- 実際に、彼は非常に優れたビジネスマンです。In fact, he is an excellent businessman.
- 実は、彼女はピアノが得意です。As a matter of fact, she is good at playing the piano.
- 実を言うと、その映画は少し退屈でした。To tell you the truth, that movie was a bit boring.
- 実は、彼、最近結婚したんだって。Actually, you know, he got married recently.
- 実のところ、私もその計画には反対です。The fact of the matter is, I am also against that plan.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hiroto and Himari are talking about a new restaurant.
- 大翔 Hirotoここ、美味しいって評判だね。koko, oishii tte hyouban da ne.I heard this place has a good reputation for being delicious.
- 陽葵 Himari実は、一度来たことがあるの。jitsu wa, ichido kita koto ga aru no.Actually, I have been here once before.
- 大翔 Hiroto本当？何を食べたの？hontou? nani o tabeta no?Really? What did you eat?
- 陽葵 Himariパスタを食べたよ。すごく美味しかった！pasuta o tabeta yo. sugoku oishikatta!I ate pasta. It was delicious!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “in fact” translations and entries 実は, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
