実際

• Reading: じっさい
• Romaji: jissai
• Kanji breakdown: 実 (jitsu/ji) — truth, reality, fruit; 際 (sai) — occasion, edge
• Pronunciation: /dʑi.s.sa.i/

Meaning

In fact; actually; in reality. Describes what is true as opposed to what is assumed or expected.

A noun and adverb used to introduce factual information, often contrasting with expectations or appearances. Common patterns include 実際に (actually, in practice) and 実際のところ (in reality, truth be told). Used both in casual conversation and formal writing to ground discussion in reality.

Examples

1. 実際に行ってみたら想像と違った。 When I actually went there, it was different from what I'd imagined.
2. 実際のところ、彼は何も知らなかった。 As a matter of fact, he didn't know anything.
3. 計画は良さそうだが、実際にやるのは難しい。 The plan sounds good, but it's hard to actually carry out.

Usage Guide

Context: daily conversation, academic writing, news

Tone: factual

Origin & History

Composed of 実 (truth, reality, fruit) and 際 (occasion, edge, verge). Together they describe the edge or boundary of what is real, the point where truth meets observation.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal