HSK 4
实际上
shíjìshàng
in reality
Structure
(Subject) + 实际上 + Verb / Adjective (or) 实际上 + Sentence
How it works
The word '实际上' is used to express the reality or truth of a situation, often in contrast to what was previously thought, said, or expected. It functions similarly to 'actually' or 'as a matter of fact' in English. It can be placed at the beginning of a sentence or right before the verb/predicate.
Examples
很多人以为他很穷，实际上他很有钱。
Hěnduō rén yǐwéi tā hěn qióng, shíjìshàng tā hěn yǒuqián.
Many people thought he was poor, but actually he is very rich.
这个问题实际上并不复杂。
Zhège wèntí shíjìshàng bìng bù fùzá.
This problem is actually not complicated at all.
实际上，我已经考虑过这件事了。
Shíjìshàng, wǒ yǐjīng kǎolǜ guò zhè jiàn shì le.
In reality, I have already considered this matter.
Common mistakes
Users often forget that '实际上' is used to correct a misconception; don't use it for simple facts that haven't been previously questioned.
Tip
Think of '实际上' as a transition word that reveals a 'hidden truth'. It is very common to see it used after words like '以为' (thought mistakenly) or '看来' (it seems).
More HSK 4 grammar
See 实际上 in real Chinese
Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.
Try InputDojo free