actually (A2)

adverb

Pronunciation: ˈæk.tʃu.ə.li

Definition

Used to emphasize that something is true or that a situation exists, often when it is surprising or different from what was expected.

Examples

• He said he was busy, but he was actually at home watching TV.

• The job was actually quite interesting.

• I didn't think it would rain, but it actually started pouring.

How to Use actually

actually is (collocation)

To state the true nature of something. — "This is not just a problem; it actually is a crisis."

actually do (collocation)

To perform an action that was perhaps not expected or thought possible. — "She said she would help, and she actually did."

actually happen (collocation)

To occur in reality. — "We need to find out what actually happened."

Synonyms of actually

Words with a similar meaning to actually:

• really
• truly
• indeed
• in fact

Antonyms of actually

Words with the opposite meaning to actually:

• supposedly
• apparently

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