Translation guide
Expresses that something is true or happens in actual fact, often contrasting with appearances, assumptions, or hypotheticals.
To say that the real situation is different from what it seems or what was thought.
A common and neutral way to say 'in reality' or 'actually', often used to correct a misconception.
He looks tough, but in reality he's very kind.
Used to reveal a truth or fact, often with a nuance of 'to tell the truth' or 'actually'. Common in conversation.
Emphasizes the contrast with an ideal or imagined situation. Slightly more formal or written.
Similar to 実は, but can sound more direct or emotional. Often used when confessing true feelings or facts.
In reality, I didn't want to go.
To emphasize that something is factually true, not just an opinion or possibility.
Means 'actually' or 'in fact', used to state that something really happened or is true.
Few people actually witnessed the incident.
Similar to 実際に, but often used for serious or tangible realities, sometimes with a nuance of 'in the real world'.
A noun meaning 'fact', often used in formal contexts. Can be used as '事実、～' to mean 'in fact'.
To contrast how things work in theory versus how they actually work.
実際は is used for objective contrasts with appearances or assumptions. 実は is more subjective, often revealing personal information or a hidden truth. 実は can sound like a confession.
He looks young, but in reality he's 40.
Actually, I'm also 40.
The English phrase 'in reality' can often be translated directly as 現実には, but this can sound stiff or overly dramatic in casual speech. In many cases, 実際は or 実は are more natural.
He seems confident, but in reality he's nervous.
In reality, very few people succeed on the first try.
実は、私も同じことを考えていた。
In reality, I was thinking the same thing.
The dream is big, but in reality the budget is insufficient.
I never thought such a thing would happen in reality.
In reality, the plan was a failure.
In reality, that proposal probably won't be adopted.