What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
actually
Example
I actually enjoyed the movie, despite the bad reviews. [actually: adverb]
Example
Actually, I think we should take a different approach to this problem. [actually: interjection]
really
Example
I really love this song, it's my favorite. [really: adverb]
Example
Really? You're going to Paris next week? [really: interjection]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Really is more commonly used than actually in everyday language. Really is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while actually is less common and is generally considered more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between actually and really?
Actually is generally considered more formal than really, which is more commonly used in informal speech. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
