actually

[ˈæktʃuəli]

actually Definition

  • 1used when you are saying what is the truth of a situation
  • 2used to emphasize that something is really true or happened in spite of what was expected

Using actually: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "actually" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I actually like broccoli, even though most people don't.

  • Example

    He actually showed up on time for once.

  • Example

    I thought the movie would be terrible, but it was actually really good.

  • Example

    She actually won the race, despite her injury.

  • Example

    I can't believe he actually said that to her face.

actually Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for actually

Antonyms for actually

Phrases with actually

  • used to introduce a statement that is the truth or correct

    Example

    As a matter of fact, I did see him yesterday.

  • used to say that something is not really true or correct

    Example

    I'm not actually sure what time the meeting starts.

  • used to say that something is more than what was expected

    Example

    The movie was actually quite good, despite the bad reviews.

Origins of actually

from Old English 'actuel', meaning 'in fact'

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Summary: actually in Brief

The adverb 'actually' [ˈæktʃuəli] is used to indicate the truth of a situation or to emphasize that something is really true or happened in spite of what was expected. It is often used to correct a previous statement or to express surprise or disbelief. Phrases like 'as a matter of fact' and 'not actually' use 'actually' to introduce or deny the truth of a statement. 'Actually quite' is used to indicate that something is more than what was expected.

How do native speakers use this expression?