actually
AK-chuu-uh-lee
Actually (adv) means In fact; used to indicate that something is true, especially when it may be surprising. Example: “I actually enjoyed the movie, despite the bad reviews.”
adv
1
In fact; used to indicate that something is true, especially when it may be surprising.
"I actually enjoyed the movie, despite the bad reviews."
"She actually finished the marathon in under four hours."
"Surprisingly, the cheapest hotel was actually the cleanest of all."
intj
1
Used to introduce a correction, clarification, or mild disagreement.
"Actually, I think the meeting is at three, not two."
"Actually, I'd rather sit by the window if that's all right."
"No, actually, we met at university, not at work."
How to use actually
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishReally, in fact — often used to correct a misunderstanding or highlight something unexpected.
Common mistake
Overusing "actually" to open sentences can sound condescending in conversation; use sparingly when correcting someone.
Common pairings
actually happened
actually think
but actually
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I _____ enjoyed the movie, despite the bad reviews.
Etymology
From Middle English actually, formed from actual plus -ly.
Synonyms
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genuinely
above a bit
all things considered
as a matter of fact
by right
certainly
come to think of it
de facto
definitely
de jure
forsooth
fact is
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for actually
See all rhymes for actually →Frequently asked questions
What does “actually” mean?
The word “actually” means in fact; used to indicate that something is true, especially when it may be surprising. In plain terms, really, in fact — often used to correct a misunderstanding or highlight something unexpected.
How do you pronounce “actually”?
“Actually” is pronounced AK-chuu-uh-lee (/ˈæk.t͡ʃ(u.)(ə.)li/ in IPA).
How do you use “actually” in a sentence?
Here is “actually” used in a sentence: “I actually enjoyed the movie, despite the bad reviews.”
What is another word for “actually”?
Words with a similar meaning to “actually” include above a bit, all things considered, as a matter of fact, by right, certainly and come to think of it.
What is the opposite of “actually”?
The opposite of “actually” — its antonyms — are figuratively, metaphorically, ostensibly and virtually.
What part of speech is “actually”?
Depending on how it is used, “actually” can be an adverb and an intj.
Where does the word “actually” come from?
The word “actually” comes from Middle English. From Middle English actually, formed from actual plus -ly.
Is “actually” a common word?
“Actually” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between actually and really?
'Actually' introduces a fact that corrects or contrasts with what someone expects: 'It's actually cheaper online.' 'Really' emphasizes degree or truth: 'It's really cheap.' Both stress reality, but 'actually' usually signals surprise or a gentle correction, while 'really' intensifies. They often overlap in casual speech.
What does 'actually' mean in conversation?
In conversation, 'actually' flags that what follows is true even if it seems surprising or contradicts an assumption — 'Actually, I've already met her.' It can soften a correction, add emphasis, or buy a moment's pause. Tone matters: overused, it can sound corrective.
Can saying 'actually' sound rude?
It can. Because 'actually' often introduces a correction, it may come across as condescending if the tone is sharp — 'Actually, that's wrong.' Used gently, though, it simply clarifies or shares a surprising fact. Context and delivery decide whether it sounds helpful or dismissive.
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