ACTUAL Synonyms: 91 Similar and Opposite Words

actual

adjective

ˈak-ch(ə-w)əl

Definition of actual

as in real

existing in fact and not merely as a possibility the actual outcome of the election was quite different from what everybody had expected

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of actual Without unanimous support, along with the 60 votes of support needed to pass the bill, an actual vote was still being worked on from those involved. — Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2026 Although no one observed the actual collision, a telescope in Chile spotted what astronomers have identified as the debris plume resulting from the crash. — Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 8 Aug. 2026 The show was a colorful, vibrant display of Puerto Rican and pan-Latin American culture, featuring a dynamic set showcasing the history of workers in sugarcane fields to the modern joys of everyday life and an actual legal wedding onstage. — Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 8 Aug. 2026 Sure, Thursday’s Pro Football Hall of Fame game between the Panthers and Arizona Cardinals was nothing more than a meaningless exhibition in which few, if any, actual starters played. — Los Angeles Times, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for actual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for actual

Adjective

This is the second episode but, in some respects, the real kickoff to this new season.

— Keith Phipps, Vulture, 12 Aug. 2026
The real causes of inflammation are dietary patterns that contain too many calories, too much sugar, or too much saturated fat.

— Marie Bladt, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of real

Adjective

The lawsuits involve separate banks, account agreements and factual allegations.

— Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026
In January, the bank asked the judge to throw out Arbuckle’s claims, arguing that evidence exchanged by both sides showed no key factual disputes requiring a jury to resolve.

— Chase Jordan July 30, Charlotte Observer, 30 July 2026

Definition of factual

Adjective

But regardless of any lack of confidence in Hamas’ true intentions, in Mladenov’s faith in the ability to verify weapons decommissioning, or indeed Netanyahu’s own willingness to order any troop withdrawals, why poke Trump so publicly in the eye?

— Andrew Carey, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
This problem-first strategy is crucial for unlocking AI's true potential.

— Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026