Translation and Meaning of: 実は - jitsuha

If you have ever watched an anime, drama, or talked to a Japanese person, you have probably heard the word 実は[じつは]. It is one of those expressions that frequently appears in everyday life and carries an interesting meaning, often used to introduce a revelation or something unexpected. In this article, we will explore what this word means, how it is used in real Japanese, and why it is so common in daily dialogues.

In addition to understanding the translation and context of use, let's dive into the cultural and grammatical details that make this expression a valuable tool for those learning Japanese. If you want to know how the Japanese use it in conversations or even in formal situations, keep reading!

The meaning and use of 実は [じつは]

The word 実は can be translated as "in fact," "to be honest," or "the fact is that." It is often used to introduce information that may be surprising, contradictory, or even a secret that has been kept. Imagine someone saying: "実は、私は先生です" (Jitsu wa, watashi wa sensei desu) – "In fact, I am a teacher." There is a nuance of revelation here, something that was not obvious before.

Unlike other similar expressions, such as 本当は (hontou wa), which can also mean "actually," 実は carries a softer and less confrontational tone. It is commonly used in situations where a person wants to share something without sounding abrupt. For this reason, it is often found in everyday conversations, from personal confessions to explanations in professional contexts.

The origin and structure of 実は

Analyzing the kanjis that comprise the word, we have 実 (jitsu), which means "truth" or "reality," and は (wa), the particle that marks the topic of the sentence. Together, they form an expression that literally points to "with regard to the truth" or "when it comes to reality." This construction reinforces the role of the word in bringing to light facts that were hidden or not evident.

It is worth noting that 実 also appears in other important words, such as 実際 (jissai – "in practice") and 実物 (jitsubutsu – "real object"). This semantic root helps to understand why 実は is linked to revelations and truths that come to the surface. Its use dates back to classical Japanese, remaining relevant to this day without significant changes in meaning.

Tips for using 実は correctly

One of the best ways to memorize this expression is to associate it with situations where new information is presented. For example, if you are telling a friend that you actually don't like a dish you have always eaten out of politeness, 実は is the perfect word to start the sentence. It prepares the listener for something that goes beyond appearances.

Another useful tip is to pay attention to how characters in animes and dramas use this expression. Often, it appears in confession scenes or turning points in the plot. By hearing it repeatedly in emotional contexts, it becomes easier to not only the meaning but also the intonation and the impact it has in a real conversation.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 実は (Jitsu wa) - In fact
• 実際は (Jissai wa) - In reality
• 実はと言うと (Jitsu wa to iu to) - If I tell the truth
• 実はというと (Jitsu wa to iu to) - When talking about the truth
• 実はというところ (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro) - Regarding the truth
• 実はというところが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga) - About what refers to the truth
• 実はというところで (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro de) - Regarding what pertains to truth
• 実はというところは (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro wa) - What refers to the truth
• 実はというところも (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro mo) - Also regarding the truth
• 実はというところだが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro da ga) - Although it refers to the truth
• 実はというところですが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro desu ga) - Despite referring to the truth
• 実はというところがある (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga aru) - There are circumstances that refer to the truth.
• 実はというところがあって (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga atte) - There are situations that refer to the truth.
• 実はというところがあるのだが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga aru no da ga) - Although there are circumstances that refer to the truth
• 実はというところがあるのですが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga aru no desu ga) - There are circumstances regarding the truth, however
• 実はというところがあるんですが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga arun desu ga) - There are situations that refer to the truth, but
• 実はというところがあるんだが (Jitsu wa to iu tokoro ga arun da ga) - Despite there being circumstances that refer to the truth