actually
Translation
in fact, really, in reality
Examples
He looks young, but he's actually fifty.
He looks young, but he's actually fifty.
Did you actually see him leave?
Did you actually see him leave?
Actually, I think I'll have a coffee.
Actually, I think I'll have a coffee.
Grammar Patterns
((sentence initial)) used to give new or surprising information Actually, I think I'll have a coffee.
((mid-position)) used to emphasize a fact He's actually fifty.
Similar Words
Synonyms: really, in fact, indeed
Etymology
Formed from the adjective 'actual' plus the adverb-forming suffix '-ly'.
Memory Tips
Use it to emphasize what is true or real, often when it's surprising or unexpected.