"실은" (sil-eun) translates to "Actually" or "In fact" in English. It's used when you're revealing the truth or giving additional, often surprising, information about a situation. Whether you're admitting something, correcting a previous statement, or introducing a new perspective, "실은" helps you smoothly transition into revealing the reality behind something.
It’s a versatile phrase used both in casual and formal conversations to preface what you're about to say in a humble or honest way.
More expressions (in Korean) with English translation:
- 사실은 (sa-sil-eun) - Actually / The truth is
- 진실은 (jin-sil-eun) - The truth is
- 솔직히 말하면 (sol-jik-hi mal-ha-myeon) - To be honest
- 사실대로 말하면 (sa-sil-dae-ro mal-ha-myeon) - If I speak truthfully
- 사실은 그게 아니에요 (sa-sil-eun geu-ge an-i-e-yo) - Actually, that’s not the case
- 솔직히 (sol-jik-hi) - Honestly
- 알고 보면 (al-go bo-myeon) - If you really think about it / In fact
- 실은 말하고 싶었어요 (sil-eun mal-ha-go sip-eoss-eo-yo) - Actually, I wanted to tell you
Using "실은" helps you to introduce facts, clear misunderstandings, or reveal something important in Korean conversations. It adds depth and honesty to what you're saying, making it useful in personal discussions or when sharing significant information.