1.
vivid, graphic, faithful, true to life
Describes something that represents reality accurately and vividly, without embellishment or concealment. Often used when data, evidence, or an account clearly reflects the actual state of affairs.
データが現状を如実に示している。
The data vividly shows the current situation.
調査結果が格差の広がりを如実に物語っている。
The survey results graphically illustrate the widening gap.
彼の表情には疲労が如実に表れていた。
Fatigue was clearly evident in his expression.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 如実に示す: to clearly demonstrate
- 如実に表れる: to be clearly manifested
- 如実に物語る: to vividly tell/illustrate
- 如実に反映する: to faithfully reflect
USAGE:
Almost always used adverbially with に: 如実に. Common in news reporting, academic writing, and formal analysis. The word implies that something reveals the truth unmistakably, often used when facts or evidence speak for themselves.
ETYMOLOGY:
如 means "like, as" and 実 means "reality, truth" — literally "as reality is." Originally a Buddhist term meaning "according to truth."