実質

• Reading: じっしつ
• Romaji: jisshitsu
• Kanji breakdown: 実 (jitsu/mi) — truth, reality, fruit; 質 (shitsu/shichi) — quality, substance
• Pronunciation: /dʑis.ɕi.tsɯ/

Meaning

Substance; essence; real content. Refers to the actual or true nature of something as opposed to its appearance or name.

A noun frequently used adverbially as 実質的に (jisshitsuteki ni, 'substantially/in essence'). It contrasts what something truly is versus how it appears on the surface. Common in news, economics, and formal discussions where distinguishing form from substance matters.

Examples

1. 実質的にはリーダーは彼女だ。 In essence, she's the leader.
2. 給料は上がったが、実質的な収入は減っている。 My salary went up, but my real income has gone down.
3. この計画は実質を伴っていない。 This plan lacks substance.

Usage Guide

Context: economics, news, academic writing

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 実 (jitsu, truth/reality) + 質 (shitsu, quality/substance). Both characters emphasise genuineness, creating a word that highlights true nature over outward appearance.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal