Meaning & use
actually
Used to emphasize that something is true, especially when it is surprising or contrary to expectation.
See it in a sentence
I thought the movie would be boring, but actually it was thrilling.
She actually finished the marathon despite spraining her ankle the week before.
A note on using this word
Overusing actually at the start of casual sentences can sound contradictory or curt, so reserve it for genuine contrast.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Make it your own
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