Offline mode

    本音を言えば (hon'ne o ieba) - If I speak my true feelings

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    neutral

    How it works

    This expression consists of the noun 本音 (hon'ne - true feelings), the direct object particle を (o), and the conditional form of the verb 言う (iu - to say), which is 言えば (ieba - if one says). It literally means 'if one says their true feelings' and is used to introduce a statement that reveals one's honest opinion or sentiment, often contrasting with what was previously implied or expected.

    Sample sentences

    本音を言えば、この仕事はあまり好きじゃない。

    If I speak my true feelings, I don't really like this job.

    本音を言えば、彼女の提案には反対だ。

    To be honest, I'm against her proposal.

    本音を言えば、もっとゆっくりしたいんだ。

    If I speak my true feelings, I want to take it easier.

    Quick facts

    nuance:Often implies that the speaker is about to reveal something they might have been holding back, or an opinion that might be unconventional or critical. It signals a moment of candor.
    commonUsage:Frequently used at the beginning of a sentence or clause.

    Mnemonic

    Sign in for a creative sound-alike story that makes "本音を言えば (hon'ne o ieba) - If I speak my true feelings" unforgettable 🧠

    Get an AI-generated memory hook for 本音を言えば (hon'ne o ieba) - If I speak my true feelings — a vivid scene that locks the word in your brain 🧠

    Example

    本音を言えば、この仕事はあまり好きじゃない。

    If I speak my true feelings, I don't really like this job.

    本音を言えば、彼女の提案には反対だ。

    To be honest, I'm against her proposal.

    Sign in for AI-generated examples tailored to your level ✨