Dictionary monolingual
English

Actually

ˈæk(t)ʃ(u)əli
Extremely common
300 - 400
300 - 400
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

Actually -

In reality or in fact

Example: I thought she was angry, but she was actually just tired.
Usage: formalContext: academic or professional discussions
Note: Used to clarify a misconception or provide additional information.

Used to emphasize a contrast with what was expected or what has been said

Example: I thought the movie would be boring, but it was actually quite entertaining.
Usage: informalContext: casual conversations
Note: Often used in everyday speech to express surprise or correction.

Used to introduce a new topic or statement

Example: Actually, I wanted to talk to you about a different project.
Usage: formal/informalContext: various contexts
Note: Can be used to shift the focus of a conversation or provide a segue.

Actually's synonyms

really

Used to emphasize the truth or accuracy of a statement.
Example: I really enjoyed the movie.
Note: Similar to 'actually' in conveying truth, but 'really' is more informal and can also express enthusiasm or intensity.

truly

Used to emphasize the sincerity or genuineness of a statement.
Example: I truly believe in your abilities.
Note: While 'actually' can simply convey reality, 'truly' emphasizes the authenticity or honesty of a statement.

indeed

Used to confirm or emphasize the truth of something.
Example: Indeed, the results were better than expected.
Note: Similar to 'actually' in confirming truth, but 'indeed' is more formal and can also express agreement or affirmation.

Actually expressions, common phrases

In fact

Used to introduce a statement that provides additional information or clarifies a point.
Example: In fact, I have never been to that restaurant before.
Note: Similar in meaning to actually but often used to emphasize the truthfulness or accuracy of a statement.

As a matter of fact

Used to introduce a fact or piece of information that supports or contradicts a previous statement.
Example: As a matter of fact, I have already completed the project.
Note: Slightly more formal than 'actually' and often used to provide additional information.

Believe it or not

Used to introduce something surprising or unexpected that is true.
Example: Believe it or not, she has never tasted chocolate before.
Note: Conveys a sense of disbelief or incredulity, unlike the straightforward nature of 'actually'.

In reality

Used to emphasize the true nature of a situation or fact.
Example: In reality, the situation is much more complicated than it seems.
Note: Emphasizes the actual state of affairs, similar to 'actually', but with a focus on the real circumstances.

To tell you the truth

Used to preface a statement that may be surprising or revealing.
Example: To tell you the truth, I didn't enjoy the movie at all.
Note: Indicates a forthcoming honest or candid statement, similar to 'actually', but with a focus on personal honesty.

As it happens

Used to introduce information that is relevant to the current topic of discussion.
Example: As it happens, I know the answer to that question.
Note: Suggests a fortuitous or coincidental disclosure of information, similar to 'actually', but with an element of timing or circumstance.

The truth is

Used to introduce a candid or honest statement.
Example: The truth is, I haven't finished the report yet.
Note: Similar to 'actually' but with a stronger emphasis on revealing the truth or being forthright.

Actually everyday (slang) expressions

Actually

The original word 'actually' is used to emphasize the truth or reality of a statement.
Example: I actually enjoyed the movie last night.
Note: N/A

Real talk

'Real talk' is slang used to emphasize that what is being said is honest, sincere, or serious.
Example: Real talk, I need to finish this project by tomorrow.
Note: Uses informal language and is more casual than 'actually'.

Honestly

In informal language, 'honestly' is used to suggest openness or truthfulness.
Example: Honestly, I have no idea what he's talking about.
Note: Conveys a sense of sincerity but often used in a more relaxed context.

For real

'For real' is slang used to emphasize that a statement or situation is genuine or serious.
Example: For real, you need to check out that new restaurant.
Note: Emphasizes authenticity and may be more colloquial than 'actually'.

No cap

'No cap' is slang meaning 'no lies' or 'no exaggeration', implying the speaker is being genuine.
Example: No cap, that movie was amazing.
Note: A term commonly used in informal or youth speech, showing authenticity.

Legit

'Legit' is slang used to indicate that something is authentic or genuine.
Example: That party was legit the best time I've had all year.
Note: Conveys authenticity in a more casual and informal way compared to 'actually'.

Swear

'Swear' is slang used to emphasize the truthfulness of a statement or promise.
Example: I swear, I didn't eat your snacks.
Note: Less formal and more expressive than 'actually', often used among friends or in casual settings.

Actually - Examples

Actually, I don't like sushi.
She actually finished the project on time.
Actually, I have some good news.

Actually grammar

Actually - Adverb (Adverb) / Adverb (Adverb)
Lemma: actually
Conjugations
Adverb (Adverb): actually
Syllables, Separation and Stress
actually Contains 4 syllables: ac • tu • al • ly
Phonetic transcription: ˈak-ch(ə-w)ə-lē
ac tu al ly , ˈak ch(ə w)ə (The red syllable is stressed)

Actually - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
actually: 300 - 400 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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