真実(しんじつ)

真実(しんじつ) means truth or reality — the actual state of affairs, especially when it has been hidden or unknown. Composed of 真(しん) (true) + 実(じつ) (reality).

Common patterns

• 真実(しんじつ)を知(し)る: to learn the truth
• 真実(しんじつ)を明(あき)らかにする: to reveal the truth
• 真実(しんじつ)を隠(かく)す: to hide the truth
• 真実(しんじつ)の愛(あい): true love
• 真実(しんじつ)に迫(せま)る: to get close to the truth

Similar words

• 事実(じじつ): fact (objective, verifiable)
• 本当(ほんとう): truth, really (everyday)
• 真理(しんり): universal/philosophical truth
• 実態(じったい): actual state, reality (of a situation)

Usage

真実(しんじつ) often implies something deeper or hidden that needs to be uncovered. 事実(じじつ) is more neutral and factual. 本当(ほんとう) is the everyday word for "truth" or "really."