Do you know how to use the word ‘actually’? It is often used in conversations.
This adverb is usually used at (or near) the beginning of sentences (or moves). But it is used in different ways.
Below are four of the main ways ‘actually’ is used.
1. Politely disagree with or correct someone
Using ‘actually’ is a polite way to disagree with or correct somebody without being too direct.
Examples:
A: I thought you were from Canada. B: No, I’m actually from Australia.
A: I think it’s too late to order food. B: Actually, many restaurants are still open.
2. Show surprise
‘Actually’ is used when something is surprising or different to what was expected.
Examples:
I thought the movie would be boring, but it was actually really fun!
I didn’t know it, but she actually lived in the same town as me.
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Continued from above
3. Emphasize something is true or accurate
‘Actually’ is used to emphasize that something is true or accurate, especially when other people may not believe it.
Examples:
A: I’m sorry you didn’t get the job. B: Actually, I don’t mind. The salary wasn’t very good anyway.
I actually did my homework!
What actually happened here?
4. Give more information
‘Actually’ can also be used to give more details about a topic.
Examples:
I didn’t see the movie yesterday. Actually, I haven’t seen any movies recently.
Yes, I’ve been to Italy. Actually, I’ve been there three times.
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Extra tip! ‘Actually’ can sometimes be used to start a new topic during a conversation. Here, it is used at the beginning of the sentence (or move). It tells the listener you are moving to a new (and sometimes more important) topic. For example: Actually, I came here today because I wanted to ask you about the course. |
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