noun HSK 4
Traditional 實話
truth · honest words · the facts
Meaning
实话 means 'the truth' or 'honest words' – what is actually real and factual. It combines 实 (real, true) with 话 (words, speech) to literally mean 'true words.' It's commonly used when someone wants to emphasize they're being honest or when asking someone to speak frankly.
Usage
Native speakers frequently use 实话 in fixed phrases like 说实话 (to tell the truth), 实话实说 (speak honestly), and 老实话 (the honest truth). It's neutral in register and appears in both spoken and written contexts. Often used when confessing something, admitting a truth, or requesting honesty from others.
Examples
- 01说实话，我不太喜欢这个计划。, .To be honest, I don't really like this plan.
- 02你必须跟我说实话，到底发生了什么事？, ?You must tell me the truth—what exactly happened?
Characters
Measure words
- 句一句实话
Common collocations
- 说实话to tell the truth, honestly speaking
- 实话实说to speak honestly, tell it like it is
- 讲实话to speak the truth
- 老实话the honest truth
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of 实 (real, solid) and 话 (words), creating a straightforward meaning of 'real/true words.' This construction is typical of Chinese noun formation.