noun

actuality

akt-shoo-A-lih-tee

Actuality (noun) means the fact or quality of being real, rather than theoretical or imagined. Example: “In actuality, the project took twice as long as planned.”

noun

The fact or quality of being real, rather than theoretical or imagined.

"In actuality, the project took twice as long as planned."

How to use actuality

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe state of really existing or happening, as opposed to what was expected or imagined.

Common pairings

in actuality stark actuality

Word forms

actualities plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “actuality” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

In _____, the project took twice as long as planned.

Etymology

From actual plus the suffix -ity.

Rhymes for actuality

city pity deity acuity parity entity brevity opacity paucity ability quality reality

See all rhymes for actuality →

Frequently asked questions

What does “actuality” mean?

The word “actuality” means the fact or quality of being real, rather than theoretical or imagined. In plain terms, the state of really existing or happening, as opposed to what was expected or imagined.

How do you pronounce “actuality”?

“Actuality” is pronounced akt-shoo-A-lih-tee (/ˌækt͡ʃuˈælɪti/ in IPA).

How do you use “actuality” in a sentence?

Here is “actuality” used in a sentence: “In actuality, the project took twice as long as planned.”

What part of speech is “actuality”?

“Actuality” is a noun.