actually

ac-tu-al-ly · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    Used to emphasize that something is true, especially when it might be surprising or contradicts expectations.

  2. 2.

    Used to introduce a correction or contradiction.

  3. 3.

    Used to emphasize what is really happening or the true situation.

  4. 4.

    At the present moment; now (less common usage).

Related words

Antonyms: allegedly, supposedly
See also: actual, indeed, really, truly
Synonyms: in fact, indeed, really, truly

Etymology

From Late Latin actualis ("active, practical"), from Latin actus ("act, deed"), from agere ("to do, act"). The suffix -ly was added in English to form the adverb.