actual text

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actual text" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the genuine or original wording of a document, message, or piece of writing. Example: "Please provide the actual text of the agreement so we can review the terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The actual text?

The New York Times - Books

I took very few words from Grahame's actual text.

The Guardian

Tell students that the first is from the actual text.

The New York Times

Or why not show actual text on the calendar squares?

The New York Times - Tech

But his actual text sticks to the ignoramus theory.

The New York Times - Books

But in the actual text he explains a little too much.

The New Yorker

Like all the books discussed here, it runs less than 220 pages of actual text.

The New York Times

But without the actual text, the document was incomplete and hard to use.

The Guardian

He performed a great service by concentrating on the actual text, which had been neglected.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The lyrics are mostly obscured, with the shouted lines operating more as rhythmic elements than as actual text.

The New York Times - Arts

I'm talking about having the actual text, as written by the writer of the book, delivered on the stage.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing a document, always refer to the "actual text" to avoid misinterpretations based on summaries or paraphrases.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on summaries or interpretations of a text. Always verify claims by consulting the "actual text" to ensure accuracy and avoid unintentional misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actual text" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a preposition or a noun modifier. According to Ludwig, it emphasizes referring to the genuine wording of a document or written material, clarifying analysis and preventing misinterpretations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "actual text" is a commonly used noun phrase that emphasizes the importance of referring to the original wording of a document or any written source. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it serves to ensure accuracy and avoid misinterpretations. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts. To ensure precision, it's best practice to always verify claims and analyses by consulting the "actual text". Alternatives include "original wording" and "exact words", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

original wording

Focuses on the precise formulation of the text, emphasizing its initial form.

verbatim text

Highlights the exact reproduction of the text, without alterations.

literal text

Emphasizes adherence to the most direct and straightforward interpretation of the text.

exact words

Draws attention to the specific words used, rather than a paraphrase or summary.

precise text

Implies a focus on accuracy and detail in the written content.

authentic text

Stresses the genuineness and lack of falsification of the text.

real text

Simple synonym referring to the genuine text.

true text

Focuses on the veracity and correctness of the text.

actual wording

Similar to original wording but puts emphasis on the formulation of the text.

direct quote

Refers specifically to a passage cited exactly as it appeared in the source.

FAQs

How can I use "actual text" in a sentence?

You can use "actual text" when you want to emphasize that you are referring to the exact wording of a document, quote, or other written material. For example, "The analysis should focus on the "actual text" of the contract, not just its summary".

What's the difference between "actual text" and "original text"?

While both phrases refer to the genuine wording, ""actual text"" highlights the current or presented wording, whereas "original text" emphasizes the initial form. They are mostly interchangeable.

Which is a better choice: ""actual text"" or "verbatim text"?

"Actual text" is a broader term referring to the genuine wording. "Verbatim text" is used when something is repeated word-for-word.

What can I say instead of "actual text"?

You can use alternatives like "original wording", "literal text", or "exact words" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.