actually

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'actually' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it for emphasis, especially when you are contrasting two facts or making a point that may be unexpected. For example: "I thought he was a teacher, but actually he works in banking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Well, no, actually.

The Guardian - Opinion

Well, yes, actually.

The New York Times - Sports

"Also I think it actually demeans some quite sensible things.

The Guardian

And, parts of London, there are actually Muslim religious police that actually beat and actually wound seriously anyone who doesn't dress according to religious Muslim attire.

The Guardian

Actually that's not true.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's because if you actually have a robust board, it can be beneficial.

The New York Times

"I don't actually.

The Guardian

On Twitter, Jessica Martin said: "Cannot actually believe what's happened!

The Guardian

You know, "Haha - they have bazookas in their hands but they're actually fighting for peace".

The Guardian

It booked $1.5bn in savings in the 2013-14 budget from repealing the tax cuts but did not get around to actually changing the legislation.

The Guardian

"Australia had signed up to a commitment to actually having 0.7% of gross national income as a target by 2016.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Place "actually" strategically within a sentence to modify the intended word or phrase most effectively. Its placement can subtly shift the focus of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "actually" excessively, as it can make your writing sound defensive or condescending. Opt for stronger, more direct language when possible to maintain a confident tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "actually" is as an adverb. It modifies verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses to emphasize the truth or reality of a statement, often in contrast to what might be expected. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "actually" is a versatile adverb primarily used to emphasize the truth, often when it contrasts with expectations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Its frequency is very common, particularly in news, media and business contexts. While generally acceptable in most registers, overuse can diminish its impact. Alternatives such as "in fact" or "really" can provide variety. Be mindful of its placement in sentences to achieve the intended emphasis and avoid overuse to maintain a confident tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Really

A more direct and simple way to express truth or surprise.

In fact

Similar in meaning, but often used to introduce additional supporting information.

As a matter of fact

Slightly more emphatic and can introduce a correction or clarification.

In reality

More formal and emphasizes the factual nature of the statement.

Indeed

Offers strong affirmation or agreement with a previous statement.

In truth

Similar to "in reality" but can carry a more philosophical tone.

Truly

Emphasizes the genuine or authentic nature of the statement.

Honestly

Emphasizes the speaker's sincerity and straightforwardness.

To be honest

Highlights sincerity or frankness in the statement.

To tell you the truth

More conversational, signaling that the speaker is about to reveal something candid.

FAQs

How can I use "actually" in a sentence?

"Actually" can be used to introduce a fact, often one that is surprising or contrasts with what was previously believed. For example, "I thought he was lying, but "actually", he was telling the truth."

What words can I use instead of "actually"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "in fact", "really", "indeed", or "as a matter of fact".

Is it correct to start a sentence with "actually"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to start a sentence, especially in spoken English. It can serve as a discourse marker to signal a shift in topic or to introduce a surprising piece of information.

What's the difference between "actually" and "literally"?

"Actually" is used to indicate what is truly the case, often contrary to expectation. "Literally" indicates that something is exactly as stated and should not be interpreted figuratively. They are not interchangeable.