actually

[ak-choo-uh-lee]

adverb

1. as an actual or existing fact; really.

actually

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of actually¹

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

Example Sentences

And I feel very privileged to have shot this movie with Andrew, actually.

From Los Angeles Times

However, we suspect it actually contains spice, a more potent drug that is highly addictive and can cause serious side effects.

From BBC

The most important thing you can do when choosing a sunscreen, she says, is actually wear enough of it – a full teaspoon at least for each part of your body, face included.

From BBC

“I really can’t put into words what makes it so magical, but there is a definite thing there that you feel when you’re actually there. I’ve loved it since I was a little kid.”

From Los Angeles Times

But rarely is that actually the case, and that’s why the creeping demise of the editorial cartoon has left such a hole in our news consumption.

From Salon

Related Words

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

When To Use

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).