it is actually that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is actually that" is not correct and sounds awkward in written English.
It may be intended to clarify or emphasize a point, but it lacks clarity and fluidity in expression. Example: "The issue is complex, but it is actually that we need more data to make a decision."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It is actually that you need both ethical integrity and a properly worked out, open and inclusive communications strategy if you want to survive and thrive in the digital environment.

The Guardian

It is actually that of Ralph Fiennes, who we will get to see in scenes of Stygian gloom, his nose digitised to look like that of a malevolent tabby.

The Guardian - Film

Nouriel Roubini: My view of it is, actually, that it can work for dealing with the toxic assets of banks that are solvent, because even after you do this stress test and you do a triage within solvent, insolvent.

Forbes

Then family medicine came and I came to learn that it is actually that, plus management, plus community health.

BMC Family Practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But it's actually that.

The New Yorker

But it was actually that simple.

The Guardian - Music

"It was actually that it made the decision that it could go through the grass.

The New York Times - Science

He added: "The regime's really busy, it's actually that simple.

The New York Times

To many Americans, Romney is unreadable, but that doesn't mean he's blank inside; it's actually that he's really interesting.

The New Yorker

If only it were actually that easy.

TechCrunch

(It's actually that Daft Punk/Kanye song, if you're interested.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of using "it is actually that", opt for clearer and more direct phrasing such as "in fact", "precisely", or "really" to enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is actually that" as it often leads to convoluted sentences. Simplify your writing by directly stating the key information or clarification without unnecessary introductory phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is actually that" functions as an introductory clause aimed at clarifying or emphasizing a statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically awkward and less preferred in formal writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "it is actually that" appears in various sources, it is considered grammatically awkward and less preferable in formal writing. Ludwig AI flags the phrase as incorrect. More direct and concise alternatives, such as "in fact", "precisely", or "really", are recommended for improved clarity and impact. It's best suited for informal contexts, but even then, simpler phrasing is often more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is in fact that

Replaces "actually" with "in fact", offering a slightly more formal tone.

it is precisely that

Substitutes "actually" with "precisely", emphasizing accuracy and exactness.

it is really that

Uses "really" instead of "actually" for a more direct emphasis.

the truth is that

Introduces the statement as a revelation of truth, adding weight to the claim.

the fact is that

Highlights the statement as an undeniable fact, strengthening its validity.

it is simply that

Replaces "actually" with "simply", indicating straightforwardness and lack of complication.

it is essentially that

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the statement, focusing on its core meaning.

it turns out that

Introduces the statement as a discovery or realization, often implying surprise.

what really matters is that

Shifts focus to the most important aspect, highlighting its significance.

the key point is that

Signals the central argument or idea, emphasizing its importance for understanding.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is actually that" to sound more natural?

Consider using alternatives like "in fact", "indeed", or "precisely". These options provide a more fluid and grammatically sound way to emphasize or clarify a point.

Is "it is actually that" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "it is actually that" is often considered awkward and grammatically weak. It's better to use more direct and concise alternatives to improve clarity.

What's the difference between "it is actually that" and "in fact"?

"In fact" is a more concise and grammatically accepted way to introduce or emphasize a statement. "It is actually that" can sound redundant and less polished compared to "in fact".

When is it appropriate to use "it is actually that"?

Given its awkwardness, it's generally best to avoid "it is actually that" in formal writing. In informal conversation, it might slip in, but even then, simpler phrases usually work better.