其实【qíshí】

其实 introduces what is really the case. It goes at the start of a clause or after the subject, before the verb.

Correcting an impression

The most common shape sets an appearance or a belief in the first clause, then corrects it with 其实. 看起来, 听起来 and 以为 often set it up.

Telling the truth

At the start of a conversation turn, 其实 admits something the listener didn't know.

Where it goes

English "actually" can trail at the end of a sentence. 其实 can't.

• × 我不喜欢咖啡，其实。 → 其实我不喜欢咖啡。