adverb

actually

Translation

actually, in fact, really

He actually finished the entire pizza.

Actually, I think you're wrong.

Did you actually see him leave?

((sentence-initial)) used to contradict or surprise Actually, I prefer tea.

((mid-sentence)) used to emphasize a fact She actually won the race.

Synonyms: in fact, really, indeed; Antonyms: theoretically, supposedly

Formed from 'actual' plus the adverb-forming suffix '-ly'. 'Actual' means relating to fact.

Use it to add emphasis or to correct something gently. It's like saying 'in actual fact'.