actually then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actually then" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a realization or conclusion that follows from a previous statement or discussion. Example: "I thought the meeting was at 3 PM, but actually then, I realized it was scheduled for 2 PM."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

She was actually then in her late 40s.

The New York Times

If you actually then want to wear that watch, you're an idiot.

The Guardian - Opinion

But, since the 1800s, they have been made in the Netherlands and Manchesterr, actually) then shipped abroad.

The Guardian - Arts

It's taking up a bit of their shop but they also get good footfall because people come in for information but may actually then buy something".

The Guardian

"It is a chilling aspect of this case that virtually everything she was stating to ChildLine and her fears for her future actually then were played out on this day," Judge Batty said according to the York Press.

Independent

We were thinking we could live out in one of the villages, have a bigger house and, more importantly, a bigger garden, but we thought, well actually then you get condemned to driving to the supermarket.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

So I think that was very good actually, so then today could be very focused".

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

"I went out, I got a duck, out first ball actually … then I didn't get a wicket, and then we got beat.

The Guardian - Sport

So if we can stamp this virus out before it actually emerges, then we prevent a pandemic.

The New York Times - Health

Actually, before then.

The Guardian

How does it all actually work, then?

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "actually then" to introduce a conclusion or realization that follows logically from a previous statement or situation. This helps to create a clear cause-and-effect relationship in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "actually then" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives like "then" or "in fact" when appropriate to maintain a more fluid and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actually then" functions as an adverbial connective, linking two related ideas or events. It introduces a conclusion or realization that follows from a previous statement or situation. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "actually then" is a common adverbial phrase used to connect related ideas by indicating a sequence of events or a logical consequence. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable, appearing frequently in news and media sources, as well as in scientific and formal writing. While not overly formal, it's best to avoid overuse to maintain a natural writing style. Consider alternatives like "in fact then" or "as it turns out then" to add variety to your writing. Remember to use "actually then" to effectively link ideas and create clear cause-and-effect relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in fact then

Replaces "actually" with "in fact" maintaining the emphasis on the truth or reality of the subsequent event.

as a matter of fact then

Adds emphasis to the truth being revealed or the conclusion being drawn.

in reality then

Highlights the true state of affairs leading to the subsequent action or realization.

as it turns out then

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the realization or outcome.

in actuality then

Similar to "in reality", but perhaps slightly more formal.

so in fact

Emphasizes the factual nature of the consequence or result.

indeed then

Affirms the preceding statement while introducing a consequence.

genuinely then

Emphasizes the authenticity of the realization or situation leading to the next event.

truly then

Stresses the truth of the situation before moving to the next point.

honestly then

Suggests a candid or sincere realization influencing the following action.

FAQs

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

"Actually then" is used to introduce a realization or conclusion based on prior information. For example, "I thought I locked the door, but "actually then" I remembered I gave the key to my neighbor."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "actually then"?

Alternatives to "actually then" include phrases like "in fact then", "as a matter of fact then", or "as it turns out then". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "actually then" appropriate for formal writing?

While "actually then" is grammatically correct, it may sound somewhat informal for very formal or academic writing. In those contexts, consider using alternatives like "therefore", "thus", or "consequently" to maintain a more elevated tone.

Can "actually" and "then" be used separately instead of "actually then"?

Yes, "actually" and "then" can be used separately and may even be preferable in some cases. For instance, you might say, "I thought it would rain. Actually, it didn't, and then the sun came out." This provides a slightly different emphasis and flow compared to using "actually then" as a single unit.