How to say "Real" in Japanese

When translating "real" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 本物 and 実感. In Japanese, 本物 (ほんもの (honmono)) is typically associated with "real thing, genuine article" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to distinguish something authentic or original from imitations, fakes, or copies. 模造品や偽物と区別して、真正なもの、オリジナルのものを指す言葉です。. On the other hand, 実感 (じっかん (jikkan)) maps to "real feeling; practical realization; feeling to the bone; actual sensation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a real feeling, practical realization, or feeling something to the bone through actual experience rather than abstract thought. Often used as 実感する or 実感が湧く. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Real feeling! Realization! S-So what if holding hands with you like this makes me feel practically loved?! ...っ, It's embarrassing, so squeeze my hand even tighter!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『じ、実感よ！あんたとこうして手をギュッと繋いで並んで歩いてると、本当に『ああ、私愛されてるな』って幸せを心から『実感』するのよ…っ、恥ずかしいから、もう一度強く握り直しなさい！』. A literal translation of "real" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!