Translation guide
The English phrase "in fact" is used to emphasize a statement, introduce more specific or surprising information, or correct a previous assumption. Japanese expresses these functions through various adverbs, conjunctions, and sentence-ending particles, depending on the nuance.
To stress that something is true, often adding weight to a claim or confirming a fact.
A common adverb meaning 'actually' or 'in reality'. Used to state a fact that supports or emphasizes the previous statement.
彼は実際にその仕事を終わらせた。
He in fact finished the job.
Literally 'the truth is', used to reveal a fact, often with a nuance of confession or surprise. Common in conversation.
実は、私も同じことを考えていた。
In fact, I was thinking the same thing.
A noun meaning 'fact'. Can be used adverbially as 事実上 (じじつじょう, in fact/practically) or in phrases like 事実として (as a matter of fact). More formal.
事実、その計画は失敗だった。
In fact, the plan was a failure.
Means 'on the contrary' or 'far from it'. Used to emphasize that the reality is even stronger than what was previously stated.
彼は怒っていなかった。それどころか、喜んでいた。
He wasn't angry. In fact, he was delighted.
To add details that clarify or expand on a previous statement, often making it more precise.
Means 'rather than that' or 'more precisely'. Used to correct or refine a previous statement.
彼は賢いというより、むしろ狡猾だ。
He's not so much smart as cunning. In fact, he's cunning.
Means 'specifically' or 'to be more specific'. Used to introduce concrete details.
多くの問題がある。具体的には、予算不足と人手不足だ。
There are many problems. In fact, specifically, budget and staff shortages.
A conjunction meaning 'furthermore' or 'in addition'. Often used in formal writing to add supplementary facts.
To contradict an assumption or present unexpected information.
As above, but here the focus is on revealing a surprising truth that contradicts what the listener might think.
実は、彼は医者ではないんだ。
In fact, he's not a doctor.
Means 'rather' or 'instead'. Used to present a more accurate or contrasting fact.
Means 'conversely' or 'on the contrary'. Emphasizes a reversal of expectations.
彼は怒ると思ったが、逆に笑い出した。
I thought he'd get angry, but in fact he burst out laughing.
実際 (じっさい) is more objective and factual, often used to confirm or emphasize a reality. 実は (じつは) carries a nuance of revealing something previously unknown or secret, and is more conversational.
実際、彼は来なかった。
In fact, he didn't come. (stating a fact)
実は、彼は来なかったんだ。
Actually, he didn't come. (revealing a truth)
The English phrase 'in fact' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating it word-for-word as 事実に or 事実では is unnatural. Choose the appropriate expression based on the function: emphasis, specification, or correction.
This product is high-performance. In fact, it's also affordable.
彼は悲しんでいなかった。むしろ、ほっとしていた。
He wasn't sad. In fact, he was relieved.