when actually

USAGE SUMMARY

"when actually" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English.
It can be used to introduce a statement that contrasts with expectations or what has already been said. For example: "People often think chocolate cake is unhealthy, when actually it can be quite nutritious if made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When, actually, it's he who is weak.

The New Yorker

But when actually making them, you realise they take more work than you'd ever realise.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I found people's liberalism went out the window when actually confronted by a man in drag.

Independent

But when actually presented with the opportunity, he changed his mind.

The New York Times

They may prescribe treatments thinking they are going to help patients when actually they may not.

The New York Times - Health

They like to think there are real facts when, actually, nearly everything can be contested.

The New York Times - Books

People hear it and think, 'I can't spend', when actually they have the money.

The Guardian - Business

They think you've forgotten about them when actually you just have no time to contact them.

The Guardian

When Actually was released I was 15 and still at school.

The Guardian - Music

Often we want to be actors when actually our job is to be storytellers.

The Guardian

"It'll look like everybody has dropped, when actually everybody's doing a better job," Mr. Bounds said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when actually" to introduce a surprising or contrasting fact after a statement of common belief or expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "when actually" excessively in formal or academic writing; opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "in fact" or "conversely" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

When actually functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a clause by introducing a contrasting or surprising element, often correcting a prior assumption or expectation. Ludwig confirms its function and frequent usage in contrasting statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

34%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when actually" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase that serves to introduce a contrast or surprising fact. Ludwig confirms its use in various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While its register is generally neutral, it is advisable to use more formal alternatives in academic or highly professional writing. Remember to use "when actually" to add a layer of unexpected truth, enriching your communication and engaging your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in reality

Focuses on the true state of affairs, emphasizing facts.

as a matter of fact

Highlights the factual basis of a statement, often correcting a previous assumption.

in point of fact

A more formal version of "as a matter of fact", emphasizing accuracy.

but in fact

Directly contrasts a previous statement with the actual situation.

in actual fact

Emphasizes the truth of a statement, dismissing potential misconceptions.

conversely

Introduces a statement that reverses the trend or idea of a previous one.

on the contrary

Expresses direct opposition to a previous statement or belief.

by contrast

Highlights the differences between two things being compared.

as it turns out

Introduces a discovery or revelation that contradicts initial expectations.

if truth be told

Adds a candid or confessional tone, suggesting a previously unstated truth.

FAQs

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

Use "when actually" to introduce a contrasting or surprising fact. For example, "People think I'm confident, "when actually" I'm quite shy."

What are some alternatives to "when actually"?

You can use phrases like "in fact", "in reality", or "as a matter of fact" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "when actually"?

While it's more common to use "when actually" in the middle of a sentence, it can be used at the beginning for emphasis, though it might sound less formal. For example: "When actually, the opposite is true."

What's the difference between "when actually" and "although"?

"When actually" is used to introduce a surprising or contrasting fact, whereas "although" introduces a contrasting idea that is not necessarily surprising. For example, "Although it was raining, we went for a walk" vs "People think I'm rich, "when actually" I'm in debt."