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actually

actually [ ákchoo əli, ákchəli ]

adverb

Definition:

1. in fact: used to emphasize that something really is so or really exists, e.g. when it may be hard to believe or when it contrasts with what has already been said

He's actually over 35, although he looks much younger.

2. expresses opinion: used to express an opinion, often a contradictory one, or to change the subject

Actually, I'd prefer it if you left right now.

He's in India - he's always wanted to go there, actually.

Word Usage


	Actually, like actual, is used most effectively when it contrasts with what is theoretical or only apparent: It sounds difficult, but it's actually quite straightforward. It is regarded as poor style to use it as a sentence filler with no real meaning, although this practice is common in informal conversation: Actually, I prefer her to her cousin.

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