also: ホントのところ
Used adverbially to reveal one's real feelings or the true situation, often contrasting with outward appearances.
To tell the truth, he didn't want to take on that job.
the truth; the real story
Used as a noun to refer to the actual facts or real situation, often in phrases like 本当のところを言う or 本当のところを知りたい.
本当のところ、私はまだ決めていません。
Actually, I haven't decided yet.
He wouldn't tell the real story.
If you want to know the truth, try asking directly.
Standard kanji-kana spelling.
Variant using the kanji 所.
Casual spelling with ホント in katakana.
Phrase composed of 本当 (truth, reality) + の (possessive particle) + ところ (place, point). Literally 'the real place/point', it developed into an expression meaning 'in truth' or 'the actual facts'.