In 15 Seconds
- A versatile way to say 'Indeed' or 'That's true.'
- Works in both professional meetings and casual chats.
- Shows you are a thoughtful and attentive listener.
Meaning
It's a strong way to agree with someone by saying 'that is indeed the case' or 'it’s exactly as you say.'
Key Examples
3 of 6Agreeing with a colleague about a project's difficulty
这个项目确实如此,比预想的要复杂。
This project is indeed so; it's more complex than expected.
Texting a friend about how fast time flies
确实如此,时间过得太快了!
Indeed, time flies so fast!
Agreeing with a food critic at a dinner
这家店的招牌菜确实如此美味。
The signature dish here is indeed that delicious.
Cultural Background
The word '此' (cǐ) is a remnant of Classical Chinese that survived into modern speech. Using it makes the speaker sound more educated and refined than using the more common '这' (zhè). It reflects the Chinese cultural value of acknowledging others' perspectives with dignity.
The 'Short Cut'
In very casual settings, just say '确实' (Quèshí). It's the cool, abbreviated version that native speakers use 80% of the time while texting.
Don't overdo it
If you say it after every single sentence your friend speaks, you'll sound like a broken record or a 'yes-man.' Mix it up with '对' or '没错'.
In 15 Seconds
- A versatile way to say 'Indeed' or 'That's true.'
- Works in both professional meetings and casual chats.
- Shows you are a thoughtful and attentive listener.
What It Means
确实如此 is your go-to phrase for total agreement. It translates to "Indeed" or "That is exactly right." It’s more than a simple "yes." It shows you’ve processed what the other person said. You are confirming their observation is 100% accurate. Think of it as a verbal nod of approval.
How To Use It
Use it as a standalone response to a statement. Someone says the coffee here is great? You say 确实如此. It functions like a period at the end of a sentence. It’s short, punchy, and very satisfying to say. You can also place it at the start of a longer explanation. It anchors your thoughts before you add more detail.
When To Use It
You can use this in almost any setting. It works beautifully in a business meeting when a boss makes a point. It’s equally good when a friend complains about the summer heat. Use it when you want to sound thoughtful and certain. It makes you sound like a very attentive listener. It’s great for texting when you’re too lazy to type a full sentence.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for simple factual questions. If someone asks "Is it raining?", don't say 确实如此. Just say 是 or 对. It’s for opinions, observations, or conclusions. Avoid using it if you actually disagree, obviously. Using it sarcastically is rare and might just confuse people. It’s a bit too heavy for very high-energy, chaotic parties.
Cultural Background
This phrase has a slightly literary, classic feel to it. The 此 part comes from Classical Chinese, meaning "this." It’s been used for centuries to show wisdom and agreement. In modern China, it shows you have a good grasp of the language. It bridges the gap between casual talk and elegant speech. It’s a sign of respect for the speaker’s insight.
Common Variations
If you want to be more casual, try 确实 (Quèshí). It’s the younger, cooler sibling of the full phrase. For more emphasis, you can say 确实是这样 (Quèshí shì zhèyàng). If you really want to agree, try 一点没错 (Yīdiǎn méicuò). Each variation changes the flavor but keeps the same core meaning. Stick to the original 确实如此 to stay safe and polite.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral-to-formal. It is safe for all audiences, but using the shortened '确实' is more common in fast-paced, informal texting.
The 'Short Cut'
In very casual settings, just say '确实' (Quèshí). It's the cool, abbreviated version that native speakers use 80% of the time while texting.
Don't overdo it
If you say it after every single sentence your friend speaks, you'll sound like a broken record or a 'yes-man.' Mix it up with '对' or '没错'.
The Power of 'Ci'
The character '此' (cǐ) is a classic way to say 'this.' Using it makes you sound like you've studied Chinese literature, even if you're just a beginner!
Examples
6这个项目确实如此,比预想的要复杂。
This project is indeed so; it's more complex than expected.
Used here to validate a shared professional observation.
确实如此,时间过得太快了!
Indeed, time flies so fast!
A common empathetic response in casual chat.
这家店的招牌菜确实如此美味。
The signature dish here is indeed that delicious.
Adds a touch of elegance to the agreement.
医生说我需要多运动,确实如此,我老了。
The doctor said I need exercise; indeed, I am getting old.
Self-deprecating humor using a formal phrase for a silly truth.
生活确实如此不容易,我理解你。
Life is indeed not easy; I understand you.
Shows deep empathy and validation of feelings.
今天确实如此闷热,让人受不了。
It is indeed so muggy today, it's unbearable.
Used to agree on a shared physical discomfort.
Test Yourself
Choose the best response to: '北京的交通太拥堵了。' (Beijing's traffic is too congested.)
___,我今天迟到了半小时。
The speaker is agreeing with the observation about traffic and providing a supporting example.
Complete the sentence to agree that a movie was great.
这部电影___像大家说的那样精彩。
确实如此 fits perfectly to confirm that the movie lived up to its reputation.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of Agreement
Short and snappy
确实 (Quèshí)
Safe for all situations
确实如此 (Quèshí rúcǐ)
Polished and literary
诚然如此 (Chéngrán rúcǐ)
Where to use 确实如此
Business Meeting
Agreeing with a strategy
Dinner with Elders
Showing respect to an opinion
Social Media
Commenting on a relatable post
Deep Conversations
Validating a friend's feelings
Practice Bank
2 exercises___,我今天迟到了半小时。
The speaker is agreeing with the observation about traffic and providing a supporting example.
这部电影___像大家说的那样精彩。
确实如此 fits perfectly to confirm that the movie lived up to its reputation.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot at all! It's neutral. While it's more 'proper' than just saying 对, it's very common among friends to show genuine agreement.
Usually, no. If someone asks 你去过中国吗? (Have you been to China?), don't use it. Use it for opinions like 中国很大 (China is big).
确实 is an adverb meaning 'really,' while 确实如此 is a complete sentence meaning 'It is indeed so.' They are often interchangeable in response.
Yes, it's perfect for emails. It sounds professional and decisive when confirming a point made by a client or partner.
Focus on the fourth tone of 确 (què) and 如 (rú). Don't rush the 此 (cǐ) at the end; let it linger slightly for emphasis.
No, this phrase implies full agreement. If you only partially agree, try 有一点道理 (Yǒu yīdiǎn dàolǐ - has some truth).
Yes, exactly. Just like 'Indeed,' it can be slightly formal but is widely used to confirm a statement's truth.
Not exactly a slang version, but young people might just type qs (the pinyin initials for Què Shí) in games or chats.
Yes! You can say 确实如此,我也这么想 (Indeed, I think so too). It acts as a great transition.
The worst that happens is you sound a bit too emphatic. People will still understand you're trying to agree.
Related Phrases
确实
Indeed / Really
没错
That's right / Correct
正是如此
Exactly so (slightly more formal)
我也这么觉得
I feel the same way