本当に
hontou ni
The English phrase "oh really" can be translated into Japanese as 本当に (hontou ni).
This expression is used to show surprise or to ask for confirmation when someone tells you something unexpected. To express surprise or disbelief, the phrase 本当に？ is typically spoken with a rising intonation at the end, much like the English 'Really?'
Which one should you use?
While 本当に can be used as an adverb meaning 'really/truly', the shortened form 本当？ with a rising intonation is the standard way to say 'Really?' in casual speech. For more formal situations, you might use 本当ですか？ to ask "Is it true?" or そうですか？ to say "Is that so?" to express surprise or skepticism.
How does it change in a sentence?
In polite conversation, instead of just saying 本当に, it is more natural to use the full question form 本当ですか to express surprise or seek confirmation.
How do you pronounce it?
hontou ni
Did you know?
- The kanji for 本当 literally means 'true' and 'road', suggesting that the truth is a path or a correct way.
- In very casual settings among friends, you might hear people say マジ (maji) instead of 本当 to mean 'Really?' or 'Seriously?'
- If you say 本当に with a flat, falling intonation instead of a rising one, you may sound like you are doubting the person's honesty rather than expressing surprise.
Examples in context
- 本当に？Hontō ni?Oh, really?
Example conversation
Hiiyori tells Ren that she won a prize.
- 陽葵 Himari懸賞で旅行に当たったよ！Kenshō de ryokō ni atatta yo!I won a trip in a sweepstakes!
- 蓮 Ren本当に？すごいね！Hontō ni? Sugoi ne!Oh really? That's amazing!
- 陽葵 Himariうん、信じられないよね。Un, shinjirarenai yo ne.Yeah, I can't believe it either.
- 蓮 Renおめでとう、陽葵！Omedetō, Hiyori!Congratulations, Hiyori!
