真相

• Reading: しんそう
• Romaji: shinsō
• Kanji breakdown: 真 (shin/ma) — true, genuine; 相 (sō) — appearance, aspect
• Pronunciation: /ɕiɴsoː/

Meaning

Truth; real situation; the actual facts behind an event. What really happened as opposed to appearances.

Used when the full or hidden truth of a situation is being sought or revealed. Common in journalism, crime narratives, and political discourse. The phrase 真相を究明する means 'to investigate the truth thoroughly.' Stronger than 事実 in implying something was concealed.

Examples

1. 事件の真相を解明するのに数年かかった。 It took several years to uncover the truth behind the incident.
2. 世論は政治スキャンダルの真相究明を求めている。 Public opinion is demanding a thorough investigation into the truth of the political scandal.
3. 関係者が口を割らないため、真相は依然不明だ。 Because those involved refused to speak, the truth remains unknown.

Usage Guide

Context: journalism, legal, politics, mystery

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 真 (true) and 相 (appearance, aspect). Conveys the idea of the true underlying appearance of reality as opposed to what is shown on the surface.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal