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actually

adv. sent.
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ˈækˌtʃuəɫi// UK //ˈæktʃuːəli// ac·tu·al·ly Archaic General-service Informal

adv. used to emphasize that something is true, especially when it is surprising or different from what people think. You use it to correct a mistake or to show that you are being honest about a fact.

adv. used to emphasize the truth or reality of a statement, often in contrast to expectations or previous assertions.


SIMPLE

I thought he was mean, but he is actually very kind.

CONTEXTUAL

Many people believe the store is closed on Sundays, but it is actually open until noon.

COMPLEX

While the initial reports suggested a total failure, the data actually indicates that the experiment succeeded in several key areas that were previously overlooked.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

From Middle English actually, actuelly, equivalent to actual + -ly.

Etymology 2

A calque of Tagalog talaga.

Usage

Commonly functions as a sentence adverb to modify the tone of an entire statement; typically placed before the main verb or at the start of a clause.

Pitfall

Actually, I am living in London.Currently, I am living in London.Learners often use 'actually' to mean 'at the moment' because of similar-sounding words in other languages (like 'actualmente' in Spanish or 'actuellement' in French).

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