Translation guide
The English phrase 'real thing' refers to something authentic, genuine, or not fake. In Japanese, expressing this depends on whether you mean a genuine article, a true experience, or a sincere person. Common translations include 本物 (honmono) for physical objects, 本当 (hontō) for truth, and 真実 (shinjitsu) for reality.
To say something is the authentic version, not a copy or counterfeit.
The most common and versatile word for 'real thing' when referring to objects, products, or tangible items. It contrasts with 偽物 (にせもの, fake).
これは本物のダイヤモンドですか？
Is this a real diamond?
彼のサインは本物だと証明された。
His signature was proven to be the real thing.
Emphasizes that something is genuine and authentic, often used for products or credentials. Literally 'true and genuine'.
これは正真正銘のブランド品です。
This is a genuine branded item.
Used for things that are authentic to a particular place or culture, like 'real Italian cuisine' or 'real sumo'. It means 'home' or 'place of origin'.
本場のイタリア料理を食べたい。
I want to eat real Italian food.
To emphasize that something is true, real, or not a lie.
The most common word for 'real' in the sense of truth or fact. Often used in questions and statements about veracity.
それは本当の話ですか？
Is that a real story?
彼の気持ちは本当だと思う。
I think his feelings are real.
Means 'truth' or 'reality', often used in more serious or abstract contexts. It can sound more weighty than 本当.
Refers to 'reality' as opposed to fantasy or dreams. Used when contrasting with something imagined.
To describe a person who is authentic, not pretending.
Literally 'real human', used to describe someone who is genuine and sincere.
彼は本物の人間だ。
He's the real thing.
Means 'sincere' or 'honest', often used to describe a person's character.
彼女は誠実な人です。
She is a sincere person.
To express that something is impressive, authentic, or the best of its kind, often in casual speech.
Slang derived from 本物 (ほんもの) with マジ (seriously). Used among young people to mean 'the real deal'.
あのラッパーはマジもんだ。
That rapper is the real thing.
Slang meaning 'serious' or 'for real'. Can be used as a prefix or standalone.
ガチで本物だ。
It's seriously the real thing.
The English phrase 'real thing' is often used idiomatically. Directly translating it as リアルなもの (riaru na mono) can sound unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese word based on context.
本物 (honmono) is for tangible objects (real diamond, real painting). 本当 (hontō) is for truth and facts (real story, real feelings). Using 本物 for abstract concepts can sound odd.
これは真実の物語です。
This is a true story.
それは夢ではなく、現実だ。
That's not a dream; it's the real thing.