Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Reality" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "reality", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
現実
げんじつ (genjitsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
実際
じっさい (jissai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "reality" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 現実 and 実際.
In Japanese, 現実 (げんじつ (genjitsu)) is typically associated with "reality; actuality" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to reality or actuality.
On the other hand, 実際 (じっさい (jissai)) maps to "reality; actual state; in fact; practically" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to reality, the actual state, or something in fact/practically as opposed to theoretical concepts. Often used as 実際のデータ or 実際にやってみる. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Reality! 'In reality, Haruka-san gets lonely easily...' ...っ, S-Shut up! In reality, I want to be spoiled by you right now, so stop talking and hug me!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『じっさい（実際）！『実際、ハルカさんは寂しがり屋ですからね』って…うるさいわね！実際、私は今あんたにめちゃくちゃ甘えたいんだから、四の五の言わずに抱きしめなさい！』. A literal translation of "reality" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "現実"
理想ばかりを追い求めず、現実を見ることが大切です。
It is important to not just chase ideals but look at reality.
Bilingual Context for "実際"
その小説に描かれた事件は、フィクションのように見えて、_______に起こった凶悪な事件をベースにして執筆されたものでした。
The incident depicted in the novel looked like fiction, but it was written based on an atrocious incident that actually occurred.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "理想ばかりを追い求めず、 ＿＿＿ を見ることが大切です。" (Meaning: "It is important to not just chase ideals but look at reality.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "現実" fits here because it means "reality; actuality" in the context of: "It is important to not just chase ideals but look at reality.". "実際" represents "reality; actual state; in fact; practically".