# actuality

/ˌæktʃuˈæɫəˌti/ (US) · /ˌæktʃuːˈælɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/actuality
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the state of being real or existing in fact. You use it when you want to contrast what is actually happening with what people imagine or plan.

For teachers: the state of existing in reality or fact as opposed to possibility or theory.

## Examples

- In actuality, the plan was much harder to finish than we expected.
- The marketing campaign promised a luxury experience, but the actuality of the resort was quite disappointing for the guests.
- Philosophers often distinguish between potentiality and actuality, arguing that an object's true nature is only revealed when its latent possibilities are fully realized in the physical world.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the prepositional phrase 'in actuality' to introduce a contrast with a previous statement.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.