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March 24, 2026
其实(其實)qíshí(qi2shi2)
其实 (qí shí) translates to 'actually' or 'in fact' in English. It is often used to clarify a point or introduce a different perspective that contrasts with what was previously said. This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to express truth or reality, often revealing surprises or deeper insights.
Strokes16Frequency#476DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese communication, clarity and honesty are highly valued, and using 其实 can help navigate social nuances. It often serves to soften a contradiction, making conversations more harmonious and revealing underlying truths in a respectful manner.
Memory Tip
Think of 其实 as 'Qi' (the energy) and 'Shi' (to be). Imagine a conversation where someone reveals the 'real energy' behind a situation, surprising everyone. The characters can also be visualized: 其 suggests 'its' as in 'its true nature', while 实 relates to 'reality', emphasizing the underlying truth.
Meanings of 其实
qíshí(qi2shi2)
1actually
2in fact
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 其实
其实Simplified
其實Traditional
16Strokes
—Radical
副词fùcíadverb (adv.)Part of Speech
#476Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L3HSK 3.0L3ElementaryTOCFLL3HSKKL2CEFRA2
Podcast: 其实
Podcast: 其实
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AI Study Notes for 其实
Quick Contrast
实际上 (shíjì shang) is used to emphasize the reality of a situation, while 其实 (qíshí) implies a contrast or correction to a previous assumption.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 其实 with other similar expressions like 真的 (zhēn de) which means 'really' in a more emphatic sense. 其实 is more about revealing a fact rather than expressing surprise. It is generally informal but can be used in formal contexts as well.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 3 word, 其实 connects well with other words that express opinions or contrasting ideas, such as 但是 (dàn shì) meaning 'but'. Focus on using it to clarify your thoughts in discussions to enhance your conversational skills.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 其实 by placing it in contexts where it doesn't fit, such as using it in overly formal situations. For example, saying '其实这是一个问题' (Actually, this is a question) in a formal meeting may sound awkward; instead, use it in more casual discussions.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 其实
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其实 (qí shí) translates to 'actually' or 'in fact' in English. It is often used to clarify a point or introduce a different perspective that contrasts with what was previously said. This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to express truth or reality, often revealing surprises or deeper insights.
When to use 其实
Be cautious not to confuse 其实 with other similar expressions like 真的 (zhēn de) which means 'really' in a more emphatic sense. 其实 is more about revealing a fact rather than expressing surprise. It is generally informal but can be used in formal contexts as well.
其实 or something close to it
实际上 (shíjì shang) is used to emphasize the reality of a situation, while 其实 (qíshí) implies a contrast or correction to a previous assumption.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 其实 by placing it in contexts where it doesn't fit, such as using it in overly formal situations. For example, saying '其实这是一个问题' (Actually, this is a question) in a formal meeting may sound awkward; instead, use it in more casual discussions.
Write 其实
其
实
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Grammar Patterns of 其实
其实 functions as an adverb — it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In Chinese, adverbs sit BEFORE the verb they modify (我也去, 他常常迟到), never after it. It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
