Is actually formal or informal?

It is common in both speaking and writing. In conversation, it often sounds polite or slightly emphatic.

What is the difference between actually and in fact?

They are very close. Actually is more common in speech, while in fact often sounds a little more formal.

Can actually mean “now”?

No, not usually. For “now,” use currently, now, or at present.

How do I use actually to correct someone?

Use it before the correction: “Actually, I live in Pune.”

← Dictionary

actually

/ˈæk.tʃu.ə.li/

IELTSAcademic

adverb

Used to say that something is true, real, or correct, often to correct a misunderstanding. It can also mean “in fact” or “really”.

I actually finished the report early.
She is actually my cousin.

Adinary Nuance

Actually is often used to correct a wrong idea or add a small surprise. It is closer to “in fact” or “really” than to “currently” or “now”. In spoken English, it can sound polite when you want to disagree gently.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thực ra
Spanish: en realidad
Chinese: 实际上
Japanese: 実は
Korean: 사실은

Etymology

From Middle English, based on Late Latin actualis, from Latin actus meaning “done” or “a deed”. It entered English in the late Middle Ages and later developed its modern use for correction or emphasis.

Common phrases

actually speakingactually, nonot actuallyI actually think

Synonyms

in fact really truly indeed

Related words

actual really presently currently

Frequently asked questions

Is actually formal or informal?: It is common in both speaking and writing. In conversation, it often sounds polite or slightly emphatic.
What is the difference between actually and in fact?: They are very close. Actually is more common in speech, while in fact often sounds a little more formal.
Can actually mean “now”?: No, not usually. For “now,” use currently, now, or at present.
How do I use actually to correct someone?: Use it before the correction: “Actually, I live in Pune.”