Definition of ‘Actually’
‘Actually’ is an adverb that means in fact, in reality, or truly. It is used to emphasize the truth of a statement or to introduce a correction.
Synonyms of ‘Actually’
Strongest Matches:
- Really
- Truly
- Indeed
- In fact
- As a matter of fact
Strong Matches:
- Certainly
- Precisely
- Surely
- Genuinely
- Veritably
Weak Matches:
- Basically
- Practically
- Virtually
- More or less
- Approximately
Example Sentences Using ‘Actually’
- I thought the exam would be hard, but it was actually quite easy.
- She actually completed the project ahead of schedule.
- He doesn’t actually live in the city; he commutes from the suburbs.
- Actually, I have another suggestion for the meeting agenda.
- It may seem complicated, but it’s actually straightforward.
Contextual Usage of ‘Actually’
- In Everyday Conversations: Used to express surprise, disagreement, or correction.
- “I thought you didn’t like sushi.”
- “Actually, I’ve started liking it recently.”
- In Professional Settings: Used to clarify or provide factual information.
- “Actually, the deadline for the project has been extended to next Friday.”
- In Academic Writing: Used to emphasize the accuracy or reality of a claim.
- “The data actually supports the hypothesis that climate change is accelerating.”
Related Words to ‘Actually’
- Literally
- Factually
- Honestly
- Explicitly
- Frankly
Additional Information
- Origin: Middle English actual (meaning ‘active’), from Old French actuel, from late Latin actualis, from Latin actus (meaning ‘act’ or ‘action’).
- Common Misuse: Often confused with ‘literally’; however, ‘actually’ emphasizes reality while ‘literally’ emphasizes exactness.
Disclaimer:
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