actually of course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actually of course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a point that is both surprising and expected at the same time. Example: "I thought I would struggle with the exam, but I actually, of course, found it easier than I anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Actually, of course it matters.

The New York Times - Sports

Actually, of course, the Warrington-born Postlethwaite was a Brit.

The Guardian - Film

And actually of course that clearly isn't true".

The Guardian

Actually, of course, I have done nothing of the kind.

The Guardian - Books

Actually, of course, the G-men found that he had an efficient short-wave transmission set.

The New Yorker

Actually, of course, it isn't the future being shown, and it isn't really history either.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"But they do actually pay?" "Of course".

The New Yorker

Not actually orange, of course.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It will not actually happen, of course.

The Guardian - Sport

Doesn't have to actually happen, of course.

The Guardian

The woman is not actually raped, of course.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "actually of course" to introduce a correction or clarification that might be unexpected but is ultimately self-evident or obvious in hindsight.

Common error

Avoid using "actually of course" excessively in formal or academic writing, as it can sound dismissive or condescending. Opt for more formal alternatives like "in fact" or "indeed" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

"Actually of course" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a statement to introduce an element of surprise tempered with inevitability or obviousness. Ludwig's examples show it often prefaces corrections or clarifications, signaling both the initial misunderstanding and the subsequent, more accurate understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "actually of course" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce information that blends surprise with obviousness. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and common, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. Its purpose is to gently correct or clarify, but it's best avoided in overly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "in fact of course" or "in reality of course" for enhanced precision. While the phrase is deemed correct by Ludwig AI, mindful application ensures clarity and appropriateness in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in reality of course

Replaces "actually" with "in reality", emphasizing factual accuracy.

in fact of course

Substitutes "actually" with "in fact", highlighting a true state of affairs.

in actuality of course

Uses a more formal synonym for "actually", maintaining the emphasis on reality.

as a matter of fact of course

Emphasizes the truthfulness of the statement, replacing "actually" with a more formal equivalent.

to be precise of course

Highlights a more accurate or detailed explanation. Shifts emphasis from correction to clarification.

certainly as a matter of fact

Emphasizes certainty and factual accuracy, providing a stronger assertion.

if truth be told of course

Adds a touch of candor or revelation, presenting a somewhat hidden truth.

as it happens of course

Indicates something is true, potentially surprising, and aligns with events.

indeed undoubtedly

Replaces the entire phrase with a stronger and more affirmative expression.

veritably in effect

Presents a truth with emphasis on its effect or impact.

FAQs

How can I use "actually of course" in a sentence?

"Actually of course" is used to introduce information that might seem surprising but is ultimately logical or expected. For example, "I was nervous about the presentation, but "actually of course", it went well because I had prepared thoroughly."

What are some alternatives to "actually of course"?

You can use alternatives like "in fact of course", "in reality of course", or "as a matter of fact of course" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "actually of course"?

While "actually" and "of course" can sometimes function independently, using them together emphasizes a point that's simultaneously surprising and obvious. The phrase isn't inherently redundant if used purposefully.

When should I avoid using "actually of course" in my writing?

Avoid using "actually of course" in highly formal or academic contexts, where it might be perceived as too informal or conversational. Consider more direct and formal alternatives like "indeed" or "in fact".