to tell the truth; actually; in reality
Fixed expression used as a sentence opener to introduce a candid or honest statement, often when admitting something or revealing true feelings.
To tell the truth, I don't really like him.
Actually, I'm not ready yet.
Also means 'actually' or 'in reality', but is more neutral and factual; 実のことを言うと carries a nuance of personal confession.
Standard kanji-kana mixed spelling.
Variant with 事 instead of こと; slightly more formal or written.
Kana spelling for 言う; common in casual writing.
Phrase composed of 実 (truth/reality), の (possessive particle), こと (abstract thing), を (object marker), 言う (to say), and と (conditional/quotative). Literally 'if I say the real thing', it became a set expression meaning 'to tell the truth'.