本当(ほんとう)は

ほんとうは
expression
actually, in fact, to tell the truth
1. actually, in fact, to tell the truth
Used to introduce what is really true, often contrasting with appearances or expectations.
本当(ほんとう)は何(なに)が食(た)べたい？
What do you really want to eat?
本当(ほんとう)は彼(かれ)が犯人(はんにん)だった。
Actually, he was the culprit.
本当(ほんとう)は行(い)きたくなかったけど、誘(さそ)われたから行(い)った。
To tell the truth, I didn't want to go, but I went because I was invited.
本当(ほんとう)は転職(てんしょく)したいと思(おも)っているが、なかなか言(い)い出(だ)せない。
I actually want to change jobs, but I can't bring myself to say it.
本当(ほんとう)は甘(あま)いものが大好(だいす)きなのに、健康(けんこう)のために我慢(がまん)していることを誰(だれ)にも言(い)っていない。
I haven't told anyone that I actually love sweets but am holding back for the sake of my health.

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:

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

USAGE 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...)

NUANCE:

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

SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:

  • 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

Related Words

Synonym: 実(じつ)は (actually)
core
Added 2026.1.11 19:45 · Revised 2026.3.25 14:02
02500/02575_hontouha