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March 24, 2026
实在(實在)shízài(shi2zai4)
实在 (shí zài) conveys a sense of authenticity and truthfulness. It is commonly used to describe something that is real or genuine, contrasting with illusions or falsehoods. This term can also indicate reliability in character or behavior, suggesting that someone is dependable and honest.
Strokes14Frequency#904DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, being 实在 is highly valued, particularly in interpersonal relationships and business dealings. It reflects the cultural emphasis on trustworthiness and integrity, which are essential for building strong connections.
Memory Tip
Think of '实' (shí) as a solid object, representing reality, and '在' (zài) as being present or existing. Together, imagine a sturdy rock (实) firmly planted in the ground (在), symbolizing something that is truly real and dependable.
Meanings of 实在
shízài(shi2zai4)
1really
2actually
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 实在
实在Simplified
實在Traditional
14Strokes
—Radical
形容词xíngróngcíadjective (adj.)Part of Speech
#904Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4ElementaryTOCFLL2HSKKL1CEFRA1
Podcast: 实在
Podcast: 实在
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AI Study Notes for 实在
Quick Contrast
非常 (fēicháng) — use 实在 to emphasize authenticity or truthfulness, while 非常 is used to indicate a high degree of something.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 实在 with similar-sounding words that imply a different nuance, such as 真的 (zhēn de), which means 'really' but in a more casual or less philosophical sense. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but ensure to use it appropriately to express sincerity or reliability.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 实在 connects with other terms related to truth and reality, such as 真的 (zhēn de) and 确实 (què shí). Focus on its application in describing people and situations where authenticity and dependability are highlighted.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 实在 in contexts where a more casual term like 真的 should be used, saying '我实在喜欢这个' instead of '我真的喜欢这个' (I really like this). Ensure to reserve 实在 for more serious or sincere expressions.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 实在
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实在 (shí zài) conveys a sense of authenticity and truthfulness. It is commonly used to describe something that is real or genuine, contrasting with illusions or falsehoods. This term can also indicate reliability in character or behavior, suggesting that someone is dependable and honest.
When to use 实在
Be cautious not to confuse 实在 with similar-sounding words that imply a different nuance, such as 真的 (zhēn de), which means 'really' but in a more casual or less philosophical sense. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but ensure to use it appropriately to express sincerity or reliability.
实在 or something close to it
非常 (fēicháng) — use 实在 to emphasize authenticity or truthfulness, while 非常 is used to indicate a high degree of something.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 实在 in contexts where a more casual term like 真的 should be used, saying '我实在喜欢这个' instead of '我真的喜欢这个' (I really like this). Ensure to reserve 实在 for more serious or sincere expressions.
Write 实在
实
在
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Grammar Patterns of 实在
实在 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 8 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.
