Translation and Meaning of: 実に - jitsuni

The Japanese word 実に (じつに, jitsu ni) is an adverb that carries interesting nuances and a quite specific use in the language. If you have come across it in texts, anime, or conversations, you may have been curious about its exact meaning and how to apply it correctly. In this article, we will explore everything from its translation and origin to the cultural contexts in which it appears, helping you understand why the Japanese use it so frequently.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 実に, let's analyze how it fits into the grammatical structure of Japanese and in what situations its use sounds most natural. If you are studying the language, knowing this word can enrich your vocabulary and avoid misunderstandings when expressing yourself. The Suki Nihongo dictionary, a reference for Japanese learners, highlights 実に as one of the expressions that deserve special attention due to its versatility.

Meaning and translation of 実に

Indeed, translating 実に to English is not a simple task, as it takes on different meanings depending on the context. Generally, it can mean "really," "truly," or "indeed," reinforcing the truthfulness or intensity of something. For example, by saying 実に面白い (jitsu ni omoshiroi), the speaker is emphasizing that something is "really interesting," almost like a natural superlative.

Another possible translation is "genuinely" or "legitimately," especially when one wants to emphasize the authenticity of an experience or object. It is important to note that 実に is not a casual word — it appears more in formal speeches, written narratives, or situations where the speaker wants to give weight to what they are saying. Unlike 本当に (hontou ni), which also means "really" but is more colloquial, 実に brings a more refined tone.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 実 (jitsu) is the key to understanding the essence of this word. It represents concepts such as "reality," "fruit," or "substance," deriving from an ancient image of trees laden with fruits — something concrete and tangible. When combined with the particle に (ni), which here functions as an adverbial suffix, we have the idea of "in a real manner" or "with substance." This construction reflects well the role of 実に in qualifying actions or states.

Interestingly, 実 is one of the oldest kanjis recorded in the Japanese language, appearing even in classic texts like the Manyoshu. Throughout the centuries, its meaning has remained stable, which explains why 実に still conveys this notion of concreteness today. Scholars of Japanese etymology point out that the combination with に emerged during the Heian period (794-1185), solidifying itself as an adverb in the modern era.

Cultural usage and frequency

In Japan, 実に is perceived as a somewhat more formal word, common in public speeches, opinion articles, or detailed descriptions. It rarely appears in everyday conversations among friends, but it is frequent in contexts where linguistic precision is valued. Newspapers and documentaries, for example, use it to emphasize indisputable data or observations.

A valuable tip for memorizing 実に is to associate it with situations where facts are highlighted objectively. If you are reading an academic text in Japanese or watching a historical program, you are likely to come across it. Animes and more serious-themed dramas also resort to this adverb to give weight to certain dialogues, especially during moments of revelations or deep reflections.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 実際に (jissai ni) - In fact, in practice.
• 実は (jitsu wa) - In fact, in reality.
• 本当に (hontou ni) - Really, for real.
• 確かに (tashika ni) - Certainly, for sure.
• 真に (shin ni) - Genuinely, in a true way.
• 実地に (jitchi ni) - In practice, in the field.
• 実質的に (jisshitsu teki ni) - Substantially, in practical terms.
• 実用的に (jitsuyou teki ni) - Practically, in a useful way.
• 実際上 (jissai jou) - In practice, in real terms.
• 実に言えば (jitsu ni ieba) - If I tell the truth, in fact.

実に

Romaji: jitsuni
Kana: じつに
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: in fact; truly; Certainly

Meaning in English: indeed;truly;surely

Definition: That's right, actually.

Example Sentences - (実に) jitsuni

See below some example sentences:

忠実に仕事をする。

Chuujitsu ni shigoto wo suru

Do work with loyalty.

Work faithfully.

• 忠実に - faithfully, faithfully
• 仕事 - work, employment
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• する - to do, to accomplish

このアイデアを現実に当てはめることができますか？

Kono aidea wo genjitsu ni atehameru koto ga dekimasu ka?

Can we apply this idea in reality?

Can you apply this idea to reality?

• この - this
• アイデア - idea
• を - direct object particle
• 現実 - reality
• に - Location particle
• 当てはめる - apply, fit
• こと - noun maker
• が - subject particle
• できます - Be able to
• か - interrogative particle

切実にお願いします。

Sesshitsu ni onegaishimasu

Please ensure.

• 切実に - intensely, sincerely
• お願いします - please request

基本に忠実に生きる。

Kihon ni chūjitsu ni ikiru

Live true to the basics.

Live faithfully to the basics.

• 基本 - means "foundations" or "basic principles".
• に - is a particle that indicates the relationship between two things, in this case, between "基本" and "忠実".
• 忠実 - means "loyal" or "faithful".
• に - again the particle that indicates the relationship between "忠実" and "生きる".
• 生きる - means "to live".

実に素晴らしいですね。

Jitsu ni subarashii desu ne

Really wonderful

This is really wonderful.

• 実に - Really
• 素晴らしい - amazing
• です - is
• ね - NÃO É?

空想は現実になる可能性がある。

Kuusou wa genjitsu ni naru kanousei ga aru

Fantasy can be a reality.

• 空想 (kuusou) - it means "fantasy" or "imagination"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 現実 (genjitsu) - means "reality"
• に (ni) - Grammatical marker that indicates the location or target of the action
• なる (naru) - verb meaning "to become"
• 可能性 (kanousei) - It means "possibility".
• が (ga) - Grammatical particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• ある (aru) - Verb that means "to exist"