Meaning
事实上 is a common adverb meaning 'in fact' or 'actually,' used to introduce information that contrasts with what was previously stated or believed, or to emphasize the true nature of a situation. It helps clarify reality versus appearances or assumptions.
Usage
This phrase is used in both formal and informal contexts to correct misunderstandings, provide clarifications, or emphasize reality. It typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause. Native speakers use it when they want to stress what is really true, often when the truth differs from what someone thinks or from common perception.
Examples
- 01他看起来很冷漠，事实上他是个很热心的人。, .He seems cold, but in fact he is a very warm-hearted person.
- 02事实上，这个问题比我们想象的要复杂得多。, .In fact, this problem is much more complicated than we imagined.
Characters
Antonyms
Origin
The phrase literally means 'on the matter of reality' or 'in terms of facts.' The character 事 means 'matter,' 实 (實) means 'real/solid/true,' and 上 here functions as a suffix meaning 'in terms of' or 'with regard to,' creating an adverbial phrase that grounds statements in factual reality.