actually

American  

[ak-choo-uh-lee] / ˈæk tʃu ə li /

adverb

1. as an actual or existing fact; really.

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actually British  

/ ˈæktʃʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. 1. as an actual fact; really

   2. ( as sentence modifier )

      actually, I haven't seen him

2. at present

3. informal a parenthetic filler used to add slight emphasis

   I don't know, actually

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Usage

Spelling tips for actually The word actually is hard to spell because it uses a double l. How to spell actually: The word actually is often used for emphasis. Keep in mind that to really make your point, you need Lots of Ls (a double l).

Etymology

Origin of actually

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; actual ( def. ), + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Aga said: "I think it's very helpful to actually see what the surgeon is talking about."

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

"Understanding that larger circuit could help answer a simple question of why someone with an anxiety disorder might exhibit inappropriate fear responses to something that isn't actually dangerous," Halladay said.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

“The Americans are talking directly and openly about doing away with NATO. The notion that actually it’s expendable—that is new,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

“However, under the co-management framework, the tribe has been expecting that there would be partnership to secure the next round of funding… so that there would be capacity to actually continue the work.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Some people actually told me that meat was bad for them and to only feed them dry dog food.

From "Woodsong" by Gary Paulsen

Related Words

• absolutely
• for real
• genuinely
• in fact
• indeed
• literally
• really
• truly
• verily