actually

adverb

ˈak-ch(ə-w)ə-lē How to pronounce actually (audio)
Definition of actuallynext
1
as in honestly
to tell the truth actually, I'd rather spend the evening at home

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in really
in actual fact I call her Aunt Emily, but she is actually my cousin, not my aunt

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 actually In fact, research shows that talking openly about suicide is an important plank of prevention that can actually decrease suicidal thoughts and ideation. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 6 July 2026 This data could go a long way in closing the gap between the amount of food that’s available to donate and what actually is donated. — John Lowrey, The Conversation, 6 July 2026 Here’s what’s actually happening behind the queue, and why some of the biggest names in music are stepping in to help. — Lauren Schuster, Sacbee.com, 6 July 2026 Corbin, 22, and Parmida, 27, actually knew each other before appearing on Love Island USA. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for actually
Recent Examples of Synonyms for actually
  1. honestly
  2. really
  3. frankly
  4. very
  5. indeed
  6. truly
Adverb
  • There's a mobile app (Android/iOS) and a desktop app (Windows only), but honestly, who wants more apps bloating their already bloated app ecosystem?
    — Joe Salas July 07, New Atlas, 8 July 2026
  • There should honestly be a sequel parody of Twister where the storm chasers use tornados to cover up their kills.
    — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026
Definition of honestly
Adverb
  • However, none of them will really turn heads like the Tetra, or offer anything resembling a rear suspension.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 7 July 2026
  • Here is everything to know about how common anxiety in dogs really is, what the research says about scent work and how to start using it at home.
    — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026
Definition of really
Adverb
  • And thirdly, the confidence Harley has in its 2026 bikes to facilitate such a thing, and on a wet racetrack no less, is quite frankly amazing.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 July 2026
  • But this documentary makes the point that this was a bloody, years-long battle that claimed so many lives and that, frankly, impacted every single person on this territory.
    — NBC news, NBC news, 5 July 2026
Definition of frankly
Adverb
  • Dior presented its Diorissima collection at Villa Dior, a space dedicated to Dior’s very important customers (VICs).
    — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 10 July 2026
  • The stewards of the forest About 100 miles northwest of the Tahoe Basin, lower down in the foothills, survivors of the epic 2018 Camp fire that destroyed the town of Paradise have a very different relationship with forest stewards.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
Definition of very
Adverb
  • Adrian indeed films McElwee, including in tough times that follow.
    — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 10 July 2026
  • If the University of Miami alum were indeed dating the McLaren baller, who is reportedly based in Monaco, that’s a much bigger haul from South Florida.
    — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 10 July 2026
Definition of indeed
Adverb
  • Her sharp writing, distinctive sense of humor, and authentic portrayal of a young woman navigating a deeply conflicted relationship with herself and her family are truly remarkable.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 July 2026
  • Clark’s Elioak Farm, at 10600 Clarksville Pike, has a lot to offer in addition to its Enchanted Forest features that have truly enchanted kids for decades.
    — Janet Kusterer, Baltimore Sun, 10 July 2026
Definition of truly

Browse Nearby Words

actualizing
actually
actuate
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Cite this Entry

“Actually.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/actually. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of actually for Spanish Speakers

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