actually sound

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actually sound" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is valid, reliable, or reasonable, often in contrast to a previous assumption or statement. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I can confirm that the theory is actually sound and deserves further investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What does the Brooklyn Bridge actually sound like?

The New Yorker

Do gay men actually sound different than straight men?

The Washington Post

Better still, it doesn't actually sound anything like those records.

The Guardian - Music

With enough tracks, you could actually sound like something".

The Guardian - Film

Does a scene meant to be ruminative and mysterious actually sound inert and clunky?

The New York Times - Arts

For a start, would joyous heavy rock meditating on mortality actually sound any good?

The Guardian - Music

What did Pavement, Mogwai, Jurassic 5 and Mercury Rev actually sound like?

The Guardian - Music

Fifteen-year-olds actually sound like this and no doubt think like this, lending the characters' voices a welcome legitimacy.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Nobody actually sounded like me.

Independent

That stereotype actually sounds delicious.

The New York Times

This actually sounds pretty good.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "actually sound" to emphasize the genuine nature of an auditory experience, distinguishing it from artificial or simulated sounds.

Common error

Avoid using "actually sound" as a mere intensifier or filler phrase. Ensure it genuinely contributes to clarifying or emphasizing an auditory quality, rather than just adding unnecessary words.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actually sound" functions as an adverbial modifier plus a linking verb. It connects a subject to a description of its auditory qualities. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its use in conveying unexpected or noteworthy sonic characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

18%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "actually sound" is a versatile expression used to describe how something truly sounds, often in contrast to expectations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. It serves to emphasize auditory qualities and can be replaced with alternatives like "genuinely seem" or "really come across", depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey. When using "actually sound", ensure it contributes meaningfully to the description of a sound, avoiding its misuse as a mere filler. Pay attention to context so that you can correctly express the specific intended tone, objective assessment or emphasize surprise. The phrase's frequent appearance in reputable sources indicates its general acceptance and reliability in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

really come across

Focuses on the impression conveyed, expanding beyond sound to encompass a broader range of communication methods.

honestly strike

Emphasizes the honesty and genuineness of the impression made, rather than specifically how something sounds.

genuinely seem

Emphasizes authenticity and true appearance, differing from "actually sound" by focusing on visual perception rather than auditory.

sincerely ring true

Emphasizes the sincerity and truthfulness perceived, moving away from the literal sound to the emotional and intellectual impact.

truly appear

Highlights the genuine nature of how something seems, shifting the focus from sound to appearance.

credibly present

Highlights the believability of a presentation, shifting the focus from auditory qualities to overall credibility.

in reality resonate

Focuses on the real impact or effect something has, adding a layer of depth beyond mere audibility.

verifiably echo

Focuses on verifiable evidence that supports or reflects something, rather than just the auditory aspect.

legitimately resemble

Stresses the authenticity of the similarity, changing the focus from auditory to visual or conceptual resemblance.

factually demonstrate

Shifts the emphasis to factual evidence and demonstration, differing from the auditory implication of "actually sound".

FAQs

How can I use "actually sound" in a sentence?

You can use "actually sound" to describe something that, contrary to expectations, possesses a particular auditory quality. For example, "The Brooklyn Bridge "actually sounds" like a sustained, rumbling whistle".

What does "actually sound" mean?

"Actually sound" implies that something has a particular auditory quality or characteristic in reality, often contrasting with a previous assumption or expectation.

What can I say instead of "actually sound"?

Alternatives include "genuinely seem", "truly appear", or "really come across" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "actually sound"?

Yes, "actually sound" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. Ludwig AI confirms that it's used in various reputable sources.