Inklingo

How to Say "in fact" in Spanish

English → Spanish

realmente

/rreh-ahl-MEN-teh//re'al'mente/

adverbB1
Use 'realmente' when you want to correct a misconception or introduce a surprising truth that contrasts with what was previously thought or implied.
A split-panel image. On the left, a plain, closed wooden door. On the right, the door is open, revealing a beautiful, sunny garden inside.

Examples

Parece tímido, pero realmente es muy divertido.

He seems shy, but in fact, he's very fun.

Pensé que la película sería aburrida, pero realmente me encantó.

I thought the movie would be boring, but I actually loved it.

Realmente lo siento, no fue mi intención lastimarte.

I'm truly sorry, it wasn't my intention to hurt you.

Connecting Contrasting Ideas

Realmente is perfect for setting up a contrast. It often appears after pero (but) to reveal the true situation: 'It seems X, but realmente it's Y.'

efectivamente

/eh-fek-tee-bah-MEN-teh//efektibaˈmente/

adverbB2formal
Use 'efectivamente' to confirm that something is true in reality, often in contrast to a plan, intention, or theoretical possibility.
A gardener standing next to a freshly planted tree with a watering can.

Examples

La ley no se aplicó efectivamente hasta el año siguiente.

The law wasn't effectively applied until the following year.

Describing the Result

This usage describes how an action was completed in the real world, rather than just on paper.

Choosing Between 'Realmente' and 'Efectivamente'

Learners often confuse 'realmente' and 'efectivamente' because both can imply truth. Remember that 'realmente' is better for correcting assumptions or revealing a surprising contrast, while 'efectivamente' is used to confirm something happened as expected or in reality.

Related Translations

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