actually

1. 1
   in factadverbmodal

   In fact or in reality; used to emphasize that something is true, often contrary to what was expected.

   The plan actually worked better than anyone had predicted.

   He claimed to be an expert, but he actually knew very little.

   UsageActually means 'in fact', not 'now': for 'at present' say currently or at the moment (not incorrect: actually).

   Similarreally, truly, indeed, genuinely

   Oppositesupposedly, seemingly

   Note

   It works as a modal adverb: it comments on how true a statement is, not on how an action is done. That is why it cannot be graded, and nothing is "more actually" so. Its natural home is a contrast between word and deed, as when promises are set against what someone actually did.

2. 2
   polite correctionadverb

   Used in conversation to make a correction, an objection or a change of mind sound less abrupt, or to turn to a new topic.

   I'm not sure I agree, actually; the schedule seems far too tight to me.

   Oh, actually, while I have you here, did you get my email about the party?

   UsageUsually comes first (Actually, …) or last, after a comma (…, actually), as a gentle way in or out.

   Note

   The conversational use grew out of the "in fact" meaning: putting a correction or a change of plan as a plain matter of fact makes it sound less like a challenge.

3. 3
   adverbobsolete

   In an active or energetic manner; engaged in doing rather than merely being.

   Note

   Here the word still remembers act. Thomas Fuller's Church-history of Britain (1655) sets it against passively, so it meant doing rather than undergoing. It comes from the same Middle English source as the "in fact" sense, at a time when actual still pointed to action. If you meet it in old prose, read it as "actively" rather than "really".

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