can actually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can actually" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize the truth or reality of a statement, often in contrast to a common misconception or assumption. Example: "Many people think that exercise is only for the young, but it can actually benefit individuals of all ages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can actually sing.

Independent

"You can actually prevent problems".

The New York Times

"I think you can, actually".

The New Yorker

You can actually work together.

The New Yorker

Politics can actually be ours.

Independent

"I can actually sleep".

The New York Times

No, I can actually.

The Guardian - Film

I can actually hear myself think (priceless!).

The New York Times

"You can actually touch the water.

The New York Times

That it can actually make money.

The New York Times

"You can actually play with it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can actually" to highlight a surprising or unexpected capability, fact or outcome. For example, "Despite its age, this software can actually perform complex calculations efficiently."

Common error

Avoid using "can actually" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive or condescending. Sometimes, the word "actually" is unnecessary and clutters the sentence. Ask yourself if the sentence loses essential meaning when removing "actually".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can actually" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb and adding emphasis or surprise to the statement. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

23%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can actually" is a common and grammatically sound way to emphasize the truth or surprising nature of a statement. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable. It is frequently used in news and media, as well as in wikis and scientific publications. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "can in fact" to maintain writing clarity. Remember to deploy it to spotlight unexpected capabilities or facts, thus enriching your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can in fact

Emphasizes the truth or reality of a statement, similar to "can actually".

can genuinely

Focuses on the authenticity or sincerity of the ability.

is truly capable of

Emphasizes the real or genuine capability to do something.

is genuinely able to

More formal, highlighting authentic capacity.

is indeed able to

A more formal way of expressing capability, highlighting the ability to perform an action.

can realistically

Highlights the practicality and feasibility of the possibility.

can legitimately

Focuses on lawfulness or acceptability.

may in reality

Suggests a possibility that is grounded in truth, even if unexpected.

is effectively able to

Emphasizes efficacy in execution.

really can

Simple reordering, less formal.

FAQs

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

"Can actually" is used to emphasize the truth or reality of a statement, often when it's surprising or contrary to common belief. For example, "That old car "can actually" run faster than a new one."

What can I say instead of "can actually"?

Alternatives include "can in fact", "is indeed able to", or "genuinely can", depending on the specific context and level of formality you're aiming for.

When is it appropriate to use "can actually"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the reality of something that might be doubted or considered unlikely. For example, "You "can actually" improve your memory with simple exercises" highlights the potential for memory improvement, which some might find surprising.

Is "can actually" formal or informal?

"Can actually" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, overuse might make your writing sound less sophisticated. Consider more formal alternatives like "is indeed able to" in highly formal settings.