"the thing is" in Chinese (Simplified)
关键是其实是这样
Definition
用于引出主要原因或问题的短语，尤其是在解释真实想法或理由之前。
Usage Notes (Chinese (Simplified))
非常口语化，多在对话中用来引入解释或理由，特别是在需要委婉表达否定或困难时常用。
Examples
The thing is, I don't have any money left.
**关键是**我已经没钱了。
The thing is, I forgot to call her back.
**其实是这样**, 我忘了回她电话。
The thing is, it's too late to go out now.
**关键是**现在出去太晚了。
I'd love to help, but the thing is, I'm already busy tonight.
我很想帮忙，但**关键是**我今晚已经有事了。
The thing is, I never said yes in the first place.
**其实是这样**，我一开始就没答应过。
You make a good point, but the thing is, it's not that simple.
你说得对，但**关键是**事情没那么简单。