实际上

• 拼音: shí jì shàng
• 汉字拆解: 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

含义

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.

例句

1. 他看起来很年轻，实际上已经四十多岁了。
2. 这个问题看似简单，实际上很复杂。
3. 实际上，我们的计划已经改变了。

用法指南

语境: clarification, contrast, discussion

语气: matter-of-fact

正确说法

• 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.)

错误说法

• 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.)

起源与历史

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.

文化背景

世代: All ages

社会背景: Universal