Translation and Meaning of: 事実 - jijitsu

The Japanese word 事実 (じじつ, jijitsu) carries significant weight in everyday and formal communication in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its meaning, use, and cultural nuances can be essential. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is written, and in which contexts it appears most frequently. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and curiosities that make its learning more interesting.

Meaning and Translation of 事実

The term 事実 can be translated as "fact" or "truth." It is used to refer to something that is objectively real, proven, or indisputable. Unlike like 真実 (しんじつ, shinjitsu), which carry a more philosophical or moral connotation, 事実 is more associated with concrete events and verifiable data.

In formal contexts, such as news or official documents, this word frequently appears to highlight evidence-based information. For example, when reporting a historical event, a journalist may use 事実 to emphasize that they are presenting confirmed data, not opinions.

Origin and Composition of Kanji

The writing of 事実 is composed of two kanji: 事 (じ, ji), which means "thing" or "matter," and 実 (じつ, jitsu), which can be translated as "reality" or "substance." Together, they form the idea of "real thing" or "concrete matter." This combination well reflects the meaning of the word, as it is always linked to something tangible and verifiable.

It is worth noting that the kanji 実 also appears in other important words, such as 現実 (げんじつ, genjitsu – reality) and 実行 (じっこう, jikkou – execution). This shows how this character is associated with concepts of concreteness and action, reinforcing the notion that 事実 is not something abstract, but rather based on evidence.

Cultural Usage and Frequency in Japan

In Japan, the precision and reliability of information are highly valued, especially in professional and academic environments. Therefore, 事実 is a common word in serious discussions, debates, and reports. Its use indicates that the speaker is relying on something indisputable, which can be crucial in situations where credibility is important.

Interestingly, this word also appears in expressions like 事実上 (じじつじょう, jijitsu jou), which means "in fact" or "in practice." This construction is used to describe situations that, although not officially declared, function as if they were true. For example, a leader not officially recognized, but who acts as such, can be described as 事実上の指導者 (jijitsu jou no shidousha) – "de facto leader."

Tips for Memorizing and Using Correctly

An effective way to fix 事実 in memory is to associate it with situations where facts are essential. For example, think about how journalists and scientists rely on concrete data for their conclusions. This connection with real contexts helps to internalize not only the meaning but also the importance of the word.

Furthermore, practicing with simple sentences can be helpful. Expressions like それは事実です (Sore wa jijitsu desu – "That is a fact") or 事実に基づいて (Jijitsu ni motozuite – "Based on facts") are common and show how the word fits naturally into the language. The more you use it in real contexts, the more natural your learning will become.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 真実 (Shinjitsu) - Truth, reality; refers to absolute truth.
• 真相 (Shinsou) - Deep truth, this word is frequently used in contexts of mystery or investigations.
• 実態 (Jittai) - Physical reality or the real condition of a situation.
• 実情 (Jitsujou) - Real conditions refer to the factual circumstances of a situation.
• 事象 (Jijou) - Events or phenomena; refers to particular events that occur.