HSK 4
实际
shíjì
reality
Structure
Noun: 实际 (shíjì) / Adjective: 实际 + 的 + Noun / Adverb: 实际上 (shíjìshang)
How it works
Actual (shíjì) is a multi-functional word that can act as a noun meaning 'reality' or an adjective meaning 'practical' or 'actual'. It is often used to compare expectations or theories with the way things really are. As an adverb, it typically takes the form '实际上' (shíjìshang) to mean 'actually' or 'in fact'.
Examples
你的想法不符合实际。
Nǐ de xiǎngfǎ bù fúhé shíjì.
Your idea does not conform to reality.
这对他来说是一个很实际的问题。
Zhè duì tā lái shuō shì yí gè hěn shíjì de wèntí.
This is a very practical problem for him.
他表面上很严肃，实际上很热情。
Tā biǎomiànshang hěn yánsù, shíjìshang hěn rèqíng.
He looks serious on the surface, but actually he is very warm.
Common mistakes
Confusing '实际' (shíjì) with '事实' (shìshí). While '实际' refers to reality or practicality, '事实' specifically refers to a 'fact' or 'truth' that has happened.
Tip
When you want to say 'actually' to correct someone or add more detail, always use '实际上' (shíjìshang) at the beginning of the clause.
More HSK 4 grammar
See 实际 in real Chinese
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