实际上

• Pinyin: shí jì shàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 实 = 宀 (roof) + 头 component, simplified from 實, meaning solid or real; 际 = 阝(mound) + 祭 component, meaning boundary; 上 = above, used as a suffix

Meaning

Actually; in fact; in reality. Used to reveal the true situation, often contrasting with appearances or expectations.

An adverb used to correct misconceptions, reveal hidden truths, or contrast expectation with reality. Similar to 其实 but slightly more formal. Often placed at the beginning of a sentence to set up a contrast: 看起来...实际上... (looks like... but actually...). Very common in both spoken and written Chinese.

Examples

1. 他看起来很年轻，实际上已经四十多岁了。 He looks very young, but he is actually over forty.
2. 这个问题看似简单，实际上很复杂。 This problem seems simple, but is actually very complex.
3. 实际上，我们的计划已经改变了。 Actually, our plan has already changed.

Usage Guide

Context: clarification, contrast, discussion

Tone: matter-of-fact

Do Say

• 实际上，这件事没有那么严重。(Actually, this matter isn't that serious.)
• 他实际上是一个很善良的人。(He is actually a very kind person.)

Don't Say

• 实际上好吃。(Don't use 实际上 without a contrast — it needs to correct or clarify something. Just say 很好吃 if there is no misconception to address.)

Origin & History

实际 means reality or actual (实 = solid/real, 际 = boundary/situation); 上 functions as a suffix meaning 'in terms of.' Together: in terms of reality — actually.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal