Meanings of 其实
By ear
Play it, then pick what 其实 means.
About 其实
Podcast: 其实
Podcast: 其实
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 其实
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pronunciation of 其实
Drill the tone of 其实 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Jason Explains 其实 to You
Let me explain 其实 for you
Make it yours
Jason looks at what you watch and listen to, the checkpoints you have cleared, our lessons and what you have been exploring, and explains 其实 through them.
Sign in free to make it personal. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
How Well Do You Know 其实?
Learning Lab
Knowing 其实 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
- MeaningFree
- CharacterFree
- PinyinFree
- TonePro
- ListeningPro
- SpeakingPro
- WritingPro
Component Characters
How to say actually in Chinese
“actually” in Chinese is其实
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
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 其实 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
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.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
他____并不关心诸如此类的问题。
Issues such as these were not really his concern.
Example Sentences for 其实 (10)
Ask Jason
Have a question about 其实?
Jason answers about this word at your level: example sentences, how it differs from similar words, and a way to remember it.
Sign in free to ask. New accounts start with 300 AI credits.
Frequently Asked Questions about 其实
Yes, starting a sentence with 其实 is common for introducing a contrasting idea.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 其实?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.