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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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of actual Two entirely different terrorist organizations claimed responsibility, though the actual culprit was never found. — David Szondy august 01, New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2026 But the team is still several steps short of a device that could be implanted in an eye or even work in actual night-vision glasses. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2026 For all the film focuses on Carlson’s irrational attempts to peg the murder on gay people, the actual gay man Tom disappears from the narrative for long periods of time. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 31 July 2026 Since MedusaHVNC is good at covering its tracks, often the actual user of the system in question has no idea they’ve been compromised. — Alan Henry, PC Magazine, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for actual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for actual

Adjective

Their intentions are good, but their advice can miss the real loss.

— Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026
The extraordinary service will so pamper you that your return to real life may be a rough awakening.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of real

Adjective

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
Comcast is likely to dispute the negligence claim and may dispute at least some of the factual allegations.

— Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 29 July 2026

Definition of factual

Adjective

Instead, the shoreline is made up of rocky outcroppings, making the pools—and the views—the true focal point.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Aug. 2026
Thankfully for Chad Gable, his loss came in the match of the year in 2026, and this led to a babyface redemption tour with Chad Gable playing his true self as opposed to a heel luchador.

— Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026