本当(ほんとう)は

本当(ほんとう)は is used to express what is actually true, often revealing something hidden or contrasting with what was previously said or believed.

Position in sentence

• Usually at the beginning of a clause or sentence
• Sets up a contrast with apparent reality

Common patterns

• 本当(ほんとう)は〜たい/たくない (really want to/don't want to)
• 本当(ほんとう)は〜だ (actually is ~)
• 本当(ほんとう)は〜けど (actually ~, but...)

Usage

• Often used to confess true feelings
• Can introduce surprising or contrasting information
• More emphasis than ただ/実際(じっさい)

Similar words

• 実(じつ)は: actually (similar, slightly more formal)
• 実際(じっさい)は: in reality (more objective)
• 正直(しょうじき)に言(い)うと: to be honest