Translation and Meaning of: 実際 - jissai

If you are studying Japanese, you may have come across the word 実際[じっさい]. It frequently appears in conversations, texts, and even in animes, but its meaning can be a bit more complex than it seems at first glance. In this article, we will explore what this word really means, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and some tips for memorizing it efficiently. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to help you understand not only the translation but also the cultural context behind the words.

Meaning and usage of 実際

実際 is a word that can be translated as "in reality," "actually," or "in practice." It is often used to contrast an expectation with reality or to emphasize that something is concrete and verifiable. For example, if someone says that a study method is effective, you might respond with 実際に試してみた (jissai ni tameshite mita) – "actually, I tested it."

The term also appears in more formal contexts, such as technical discussions or reports, where precision is essential. Unlike words like 本当[ほんとう] (which means "true"), 実際 carries a weight of practical experience, something that has been tested or lived. This nuance is important to avoid confusion when speaking or writing in Japanese.

Origin and structure of kanji

The word 実際 is composed of two kanji: 実 (jitsu), which means "reality" or "substance," and 際 (sai), which can be translated as "occasion" or "limit." Together, they form a concept that refers to what is tangible and concrete at a certain moment. This combination well reflects the use of the word, as it often appears to delineate the difference between theory and practice.

It is worth noting that 実 also appears in other important words, such as 実践[じっせん] (practice) and 現実[げんじつ] (reality). If you memorize this kanji, it becomes easier to understand related . On the other hand, 際 is less common in daily life, but it appears in words like 国際[こくさい] (international).

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fixate on 実際 is to associate it with situations where there is a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. For example, if you think a restaurant is cheap, but upon arrival find that the prices are high, you might think: 実際は高かった (jissai wa takakatta) – "in fact, it was expensive." Creating small mental stories like this helps to cement the meaning.

Another tip is to pay attention to the use of the word in dramas or animes. Often, characters use 実際 to introduce surprising information or correct a misunderstanding. This type of natural exposure to the language facilitates learning and shows how the word works in real contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 実際 (jissai) - Reality, real fact, the situation as it is.
• 現実 (genjitsu) - Reality, the state of things as they really are, often in contrast to perceptions or illusions.
• 実態 (jittai) - The true condition or situation of something, focusing on the concrete aspects.
• 実情 (jitsujou) - The true circumstance or state of a matter, emphasizing the details of the situation.
• 実体 (jittai) - The substance or real essence of something, often in contrast to its appearances.