actual

[ak-choo-uhl]

adjective

1. existing in act or fact; real.

   an actual case of heroism; actual expenses.

   Synonyms: veritable, authentic, genuine
   Antonyms: fictional, unreal

2. existing now; present; current.

   The ship's actual position is 22 miles due east of Miami.

3. Obsolete.,  pertaining to or involving acts or action.

actual

/ ˈæktʃʊəl /

adjective

1. existing in reality or as a matter of fact

2. real or genuine

3. existing at the present time; current

4. informal,  (usually preceded by your) (intensifier)

   that music's by your actual Mozart, isn't it?

Usage

The excessive use of actual and actually should be avoided. They are unnecessary in sentences such as in actual fact, he is forty-two, and he did actually go to the play but did not enjoy it

Other Word Forms

• actualness noun
• nonactual adjective
• nonactualness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of actual¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; from Late Latin āctuālis, from Latin āctu(s) act + -ālis -al ¹; replacing Middle English actuel, from Middle French, from Latin

Word History and Origins

Origin of actual¹

C14: actuel existing, from Late Latin āctuālis relating to acts, practical, from Latin āctus _act

Synonym Study

See real ¹.

Example Sentences

Others debated why the show had lost its spark: too many inane games, over-edited drama, and a focus on contestant personalities instead of actual cooking.

From Salon

The “heroes” that inspired his giant dishes rest on the counter and the influence for “Under the Table” is his actual dining table.

From Los Angeles Times

Every year the Scottish government's workforce planning group reports on the recruitment target for teachers in specific subject areas, along with the actual number recruited.

From BBC

But it gets you thinking about the actual, contemporary people who are behind that curtain.

From Los Angeles Times

If anything, the contrast between his self-importance and his actual worthlessness is drawing louder scorn all the time.

From Salon

Related Words

• certain 
• existing 
• physical 
• real 
• substantial 
• substantive