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本当の意味 (hontō no imi) - true meaning

Grammar & Usage

noun phrase

neutral

How it works

This phrase is formed by modifying the noun '意味' (imi, meaning) with the noun/adjectival noun '本当' (hontō, truth/reality) using the attributive particle 'の' (no). It functions syntactically as a noun phrase that can act as a subject, direct object, or adverbial phrase when followed by the case particle 'で' (de, as in '本当の意味で'). It is commonly used when contrasting a superficial interpretation with a deeper, authentic understanding.

Sample sentences

言葉の本当の意味を理解することは決して簡単ではない。

Understanding the true meaning of the words is by no means easy.

失敗を経験して初めて、努力の本当の意味を知った。

Only after experiencing failure did I come to know the true meaning of effort.

本当の意味での自立とは、他人に頼らないことだけではない。

Independence in the true sense does not simply mean not relying on others.

Quick facts

usageNuance:Often implies that the commonly accepted or surface-level definition does not capture the full essence of a concept.

adverbialUsage:When paired with 'で' (本当の意味で), it functions adverbially to mean 'in the true sense of the word'.

kanjiBreakdown:本当 (truth/reality) + の (genitive/attributive particle) + 意味 (meaning/significance)

Often used with

本当の意味を理解する (understand the true meaning)

本当の意味を知る (learn/know the true meaning)

本当の意味で (in the true sense / truly)

本当の意味を問う (question the true meaning)

Mnemonic

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Example

言葉の本当の意味を理解することは決して簡単ではない。

Understanding the true meaning of the words is by no means easy.

失敗を経験して初めて、努力の本当の意味を知った。

Only after experiencing failure did I come to know the true meaning of effort.