also: じつをゆうと
expression, adverb
as a matter of fact; to tell the truth
Used to introduce a statement that reveals the real situation, often correcting an assumption or adding important background. Similar to 実を言えば.
See also: 実を言えば
実を言うと、彼はもう会社を辞めていたんだ。
To tell the truth, he had already quit the company.
実を言うと、私はまだ一度も海外に行ったことがない。
As a matter of fact, I've never been abroad.
Phrase composed of 実 (truth, reality) + を (object marker) + 言う (to say) + と (conditional). Literally 'if I say the truth', used as a set expression meaning 'to tell the truth'.