What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
de facto
Example
Although the company had not yet announced it, Jane was already the de facto leader of the team. [de facto: adjective]
Example
The de facto policy was to allow employees to work from home, even though it was not officially stated. [de facto: noun]
actual
Example
The actual cost of the project was higher than expected. [actual: adjective]
Example
I can't believe I'm meeting the actual author of my favorite book! [actual: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Actual is more commonly used than de facto in everyday language, and is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between de facto and actual?
While de facto is typically associated with legal or political contexts and may be considered more formal, actual is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
