DictionaryAI

actually

AK-choo-uh-lee/ˈæk.t͡ʃ(u.)(ə.)li/UKAK-chuu-uh-lee/ˈæk.t͡ʃʊ.ə.li/

5 meanings of actually

Practice

  1. 1
    in factadverbmodal
    Used to say that something is really true, even when it seems surprising.

    I actually finished my homework before dinner.

    She didn't just promise to help. She actually showed up.

    UsageIt means 'really', not 'now'. For 'now', say currently or at the moment (not incorrect: actually).

    Similarreally, truly, indeed, genuinely

    Oppositesupposedly, seemingly

    Note
  2. 2
    polite correctionadverb
    Said to make a correction, a disagreement or a change of mind sound gentler, or to start a new topic.

    Actually, the movie starts at eight, not seven.

    I'll have the soup. Actually, no, I'll get the salad.

    UsageOften said first or last: Actually, … or …, actually.

    Note
  3. 3
    adverbobsolete
    In a way that is full of action or energy.
    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    adverbobsolete
    At the time being talked about, or at that moment.
    Note
  2. 5
    interjectioncolloquialPhilippines
    Said to agree with what someone has just told you, or to confirm it.

Practice

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Origin

From Middle English actualy, made from actual plus -ly.

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts

  • Actually descends from Middle English actualy, a variant spelling of actually. en.wiktionary.org
  • The Middle English word was formed from actual plus -ly. en.wiktionary.org