Translation guide
The English adverb 'truly' is used to emphasize sincerity, truth, or degree. In Japanese, it is expressed through various adverbs and phrases depending on the nuance: genuine feeling, factual truth, or intensification. This guide covers the most common and natural ways to convey 'truly' in Japanese.
Expressing genuine emotion or heartfelt sincerity, often in personal statements.
The most common and versatile way to say 'truly' or 'really' with sincerity. Used in both casual and formal contexts.
Literally 'from the heart', emphasizing deep sincerity. Often used in expressions of gratitude or apology.
A formal, often written expression meaning 'truly' or 'sincerely'. Common in business letters, speeches, and formal apologies.
Asserting that something is factually true or accurate, often to correct a misconception.
Used to reveal a truth or fact, similar to 'actually' or 'the truth is'. Often begins a sentence.
Intensifying an adjective or verb to mean 'very' or 'extremely', often with a sense of genuineness.
Used to agree strongly or confirm that something is undoubtedly the case.
Means 'certainly' or 'indeed'. Used to acknowledge a point or confirm truth.
I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart.
誠に申し訳ございません。
I am truly sorry.
Truly, he has already returned to his country.
Similar to 実は, but often implies a contrast with appearances or assumptions. 'The truth is...'
Truly, I didn't want to go.
Means 'actually' or 'in reality', emphasizing factual occurrence. Used to confirm something really happened.
I truly saw it.
Also used as an intensifier meaning 'truly' or 'really'. Works with adjectives and verbs.
It's a truly beautiful view.
A somewhat formal or literary intensifier meaning 'truly' or 'indeed'. Often used in written language or speeches.
A truly wonderful achievement.
Means 'completely' or 'truly', often used for emphasis in both positive and negative contexts. Can sound strong.
I truly agree.
That is truly so.
Expresses understanding or agreement, like 'I see' or 'indeed'. Not a direct translation of 'truly' but conveys acknowledgment of truth.
Indeed, that is truly the case.
Actually, I met him yesterday.
When I actually tried it, it was easy.
While 誠に (makoto ni) is a direct translation, it sounds very formal and stiff in everyday conversation. Stick to 本当に or 実は for natural speech.