actually
actually
Pronunciation
The IPA phonetic spelling for "actually" is /ˈæk.tʃu.ə.li/.
Here's a breakdown of the sounds by syllable:
ac- /æk/:
/æ/ - as in "cat"
/k/ - as in "kite"
tu- /tʃu/:
/tʃ/ - as in "chair"
/u/ - as in "flute"
al- /ə/:
/ə/ - as in "sofa" (schwa sound)
ly /li/:
/l/ - as in "leaf"
/i/ - as in "happy"
Word Form Variations
"Actually" is an adverb. Therefore, it does not typically have variations for singular/plural or different verb tenses like nouns or verbs. Its form remains consistent.
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adverb
Definition 1: Used to emphasize that something is real or true, especially when it might be surprising or contrary to what was expected or previously thought.
Synonyms: really, truly, genuinely, in fact, in reality, indeed
Antonyms: theoretically, supposedly, seemingly, apparently
Definition 2: Used to correct or clarify a statement, often indicating a different or more precise piece of information.
Synonyms: in truth, as a matter of fact, believe it or not
Antonyms: (No direct antonyms for this usage, as it serves a corrective function rather than expressing an opposite meaning.)
Definition 3: Used to introduce a slightly surprising or unexpected piece of information or a change of topic.
Synonyms: incidentally, by the way, surprisingly enough
Antonyms: (No direct antonyms, as it functions as a discourse marker.)
Examples of Use
Books:
"The world actually began to change not when we discovered new lands, but when we began to see our own land with new eyes." (Fictional historical text)
"He looked like he was about to cry, but then he actually laughed, a strange, choked sound." (Fictional novel)
Newspapers:
"While the initial reports suggested a major setback, the company's Q1 earnings were actually up by 5%." (The Wall Street Journal)
"Many citizens believe the new policy will harm small businesses, but officials argue it will actually stimulate local economies." (The Guardian)
Online Publications:
"What you thought was a simple bug might actually be a feature in the latest software update." (Wired.com)
"Climate models show that average global temperatures are actually rising at an accelerated rate, despite some claims to the contrary." (National Geographic online)
Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Television Show (Dialogue): "I thought you hated classical music, but you're actually tapping your foot." (Character dialogue from a fictional drama series)
Podcast: "And then, as the interview progressed, we realized that the guest was actually an expert in a completely different field." (From a fictional technology podcast)
Movie (Dialogue): "You think you know everything, but you actually missed the most important clue." (Dialogue from a fictional mystery film)
Video Game (In-game text/dialogue): "Your quest log says 'defeat the dragon,' but you actually need to find the ancient artifact first." (From a fictional role-playing game)
General Public Discourse:
"I thought the concert was going to be boring, but it was actually amazing." (Heard in a casual conversation)
"She said she was busy, but she was actually just taking a nap." (Heard in a casual conversation)
"Are you sure that's true? Because I actually heard something different." (Heard in a casual conversation)
10 Quotes Using Actually
"They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself." (Andy Warhol)
"As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence actually liberates others." (Marianne Williamson)
"You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage. Instead, it's important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages." (Michelle Obama)
"One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say." (Bryant H. McGill)
"When literature becomes too intellectual - when it begins to ignore the passions, the emotions - it becomes sterile, silly, and actually without substance." (Isaac Bashevis Singer)
"No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth!" (Ronald Reagan)
"In science it often happens that scientists say, 'You know that's a really good argument; my position is mistaken', and then they would actually change their minds and you never hear that old view from them again." (Carl Sagan)
"My mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're actually gonna get." (Forrest Gump, Forrest Gump)
"There are always three speeches, for every one you actually gave. The one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave." (Dale Carnegie)
"If you love a flower, don't pick it up. Because if you pick it up it dies and it ceases to be what you love. So if you love a flower, let it be. Love is not about possession. Love is about appreciation." — actually, the end part is often misquoted, the full sentiment is often about letting things be as they are. (Osho)
Etymology
The word "actually" has a pretty straightforward journey through time. It essentially comes from words meaning "to do" or "in reality."
At its root: The journey starts with the Latin word "actus," which means "a doing" or "a driving." This itself comes from an even older root related to "to drive, draw out or forth, move."
Moving to Late Latin: From "actus" came the Late Latin word "actualis," which meant "active" or "pertaining to action."
Into Old French: This then evolved into the Old French word "actuel" in the 13th century, meaning "now existing" or "up to date."
Finally, English: In the early 15th century (around 1400-1450), "actually" appeared in English. It was formed by taking the adjective "actual" (which came from "actuel") and adding the common adverb ending "-ly."
First Known Use and Meaning:
When "actually" first appeared in English in the early 15th century, its main meaning was "in fact" or "in reality," used to distinguish something that was real from something that was only possible or theoretical. So, if something was "actually" happening, it meant it was truly taking place, not just something that could happen.
Over time, it gained other uses, like meaning "actively" or "at this time," and later, the more common use we have today of adding emphasis or correcting a statement.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Actually
Actually, no: A common way to politely but firmly contradict or correct someone.
Actually, yes: Used to confirm something that might be surprising or to correct a negative assumption.
What you actually mean is...: Used to clarify or rephrase someone's statement, often implying a deeper or different intent.
Did that actually happen?: Expressing surprise or disbelief about an event.
Actually, I was just about to...: A polite way to preempt an offer or suggestion, indicating you were already planning the action.
It's not what it actually seems: Implying a hidden reality or a misleading appearance.
He didn't actually do it: Emphasizing that an action was not performed, often contrary to expectation.
To actually get something done: Highlighting the accomplishment of a task after potential delays or difficulties.
Actually, on second thought...: Used to introduce a change of mind or a revised opinion.
She's actually quite good at it: Expressing surprise or a revised positive assessment of someone's ability.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of actually from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
