actual
Translation
actual, real, genuine
Examples
The actual cost was higher than the estimate.
The actual cost was higher than the estimate.
What were his actual words?
What were his actual words?
Grammar Patterns
((the actual sth.)) used to emphasize that something is real or exact The actual cost was higher than the estimate.
Similar Words
Synonyms: real, genuine; Antonyms: potential, imaginary
Etymology
From Latin 'actualis' (active, practical), from 'actus' (act, performance).
Memory Tips
Connects to 'act'. What has been 'acted' upon is 'actual' or real. Be careful not to confuse it with words like German 'aktuell' or French 'actuel', which mean 'current'.