Discussion of 确实/確實 [què shí] true, reliable; indeed, really

Discussion of 确实/確實

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In this post, we discuss the difference between 确实“ and “实在”：
1. Both words can be used as an adj. , but the meaning of them is slightly different.
"确实" stresses “actual and credible”.
E.g. . 这是一条确实的消息。 [phr] This is a piece of credible news.

“实在”：as an adj. stresses “concrete and real”
E.g. 内容实在 [phr] the content is substantial

“实在”can be used to describe someone or something that is earnest and unfeigned.
E.g. 这个人很实在，值得信任。 [phr] This person is very honest, (and he) is worth your trust.
实在 can be used to modify someone, but 确实 can't.

2.When they are used as an adv.,their meaning are both “indeed, really”. The slight difference is:
确实 focuses more on indicating affirmation;
E.g. 你最近确实很有进步。 [phr] You have indeed made a lot of progress lately.
实在 is used to indicate the degree.
E.g. 我实在是太累了。 [phr] I am truly so tired.

确实 can be put in front of the sentence alone,but 实在 can't.
E.g. .确实，那地方太远了。√ or 那地方确实太远了。 √（Certainly, this is too expensive.）
E.g. 那地方实在太远了。 We cannot put 实在 alone at the beginning of the sentence.

3.A fixed phrase using “实在” is "说实在的"（meaning ”to be honest”）, 确实 can be replace 实在 in this phrase.

lisaC

的确 vs 确实:

1. 确实 can be an adjective (meaning "true, reliable") or an adverb. 的确 can only be an adverb.

1. When they are both adverbs, there are small differences:
1a. 的确 carries a gentle and euphemistic tone. It's a more indirect way of expression; 确实 is more objective, based on facts.
1b. 的确 indicates concession; 确实, on the other hand, indicates reason and evidence. When you use 确实 you usually have reason and evidence to back it up.

lisaC

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