actually

Meanings

1. 1adverbnot comparable

   Used to stress that something is true, especially when it surprises or contradicts expectations.

   Grammar: Stands before verbs, after auxiliaries, or at clause edge: it actually worked; do not add -ly forms.

   Patterns

   • actually worked
   • actually happened
   • not actually

   The cheap phone actually lasted three years.

   I thought the store closed early, but it is actually open late.

2. 2adverbnot comparableinformal

   Used politely to correct, soften disagreement, or add a surprising detail in conversation.

   Grammar: Often begins a reply: Actually, I disagree; overuse can sound argumentative.

   Patterns

   • actually, I think
   • well, actually
   • actually speaking

   Actually, the meeting moved to Thursday.

   I like the plan, though, actually, the budget is tight.

Common combinations

actually work

The old printer actually worked after the update.

not actually

He did not actually read the instructions.

well, actually

Well, actually, the library opens at nine today.

Synonyms and how they differ

really

Really is broader and can intensify feelings; actually stresses fact versus expectation.

in fact

In fact is a phrase with the same contrastive force; actually is more conversational.

truly

Truly sounds more earnest or formal; actually often corrects a belief.

Opposites

Word family

actual adjective

Existing in fact.

actuality noun

The state of being real.

actualize verb

To make real or fully develop.

Commonly confused: actually or currently? actually or actively?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “actually”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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