si6 sat6 soeng6事實上事实上
Jyutpingsi6 sat6 soeng6
Yalesih saht seuhng
Definition
In fact, actually, or as a matter of fact.
neutraldescriptionscommunication
How it's used
Use this term to introduce a reality that contradicts a previous assumption or statement. It carries a slightly formal or analytical tone compared to the more common and conversational 其實. It is often placed at the beginning of a clause to signal a shift toward the objective truth of a situation.
Examples
He said he was busy, but in fact he went to watch a movie.
Related words
Common phrases
the fact of the matter is
Common mistake
Avoid using this in casual, rapid-fire speech where 其實 sounds much more natural. Beginners often overuse it as a direct translation for "actually" in every context, which can make speech sound overly stiff or like a written report.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- QuestionsFrom yes or no questions to asking who, what, where, and when. The patterns you need to ask questions naturally in Cantonese.
- ClassifiersCantonese puts a classifier between a number and a noun, and a bare classifier on its own can mean the. Learn the common ones and how to use them.
- ComparisonsHow to say bigger than, the most, the same as, and not as good as. Cantonese uses 過 where Mandarin uses 比, and that catches a lot of learners out.
