其实
Traditional: 其實
qí shí HSK 3

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

其实我不饿。
Qíshí wǒ bù è.
Actually, I'm not hungry.
其实他很高兴。
Qíshí tā hěn gāoxìng.
In fact, he is very happy.
其实我不认识他。
Qíshí wǒ bù rènshi tā.
Actually, I don't know him.
其实我很忙。
Qíshí wǒ hěn máng.
Actually, I am very busy.
其实她很好。
Qíshí tā hěn hǎo.
In fact, she is very nice.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: 其 (qí) can mean 'that' or 'its,' and 实 (shí) means 'real' or 'true.' So, 其实 literally hints at 'that truth' or 'the real situation,' helping you remember it means 'actually.'

📝 Usage Notes

Used in both spoken and written Chinese, across formal and informal contexts. Common in explanations, clarifications, or when softening a contradiction. Often appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause to emphasize the factual point being made.

📖 Grammar Points

Typically placed at the beginning of a clause, often followed by a comma in writing. Structure: 其实 + [correcting statement]. Example: 他看起来很年轻,其实他已经五十岁了。 (He looks young, but actually he is already fifty.)

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese communication, 其实 is often used to politely introduce a differing opinion or correction without sounding too direct or confrontational, aligning with cultural values of harmony.

🔄 Similar Words

Similar to 实际上 (shíjìshang), which also means 'in reality,' but 其实 is more common in daily conversation and often carries a slight nuance of correcting an expectation. 实在 (shízài) means 'truly' or 'indeed' and emphasizes genuineness rather than factual contrast.

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