What is the difference between virtual and actual?

How do I use virtual in a sentence?

Is virtual used in business writing?

← Dictionary

virtual

/ˈvɜːtʃuəl/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Almost like something real but happening on a computer or online, not in person.

We had a virtual coffee during lunch.
They played a virtual tour of the museum.

Adinary Nuance

Compare virtual with actual and real: virtual describes something simulated or online rather than in-person, while actual and real emphasise true existence. Choose virtual when referring to digital experiences, not physical presence.

In other languages

Spanish: Virtual
Japanese: 仮想
Korean: 가상
Vietnamese: Ửa
Chinese: 虚拟

Etymology

Common phrases

virtual worldvirtual meetingvirtual reality

Synonyms

online digital simulated computer-based cyber

Frequently asked questions

Is virtual formal or informal?: Is virtual formal or informal?
What is the difference between virtual and actual?: What is the difference between virtual and actual?
How do I use virtual in a sentence?: How do I use virtual in a sentence?
Is virtual used in business writing?: Is virtual used in business writing?