Actually...
A2
Everyday Phrase
Neutral
Very Common
Meaning
A word used to add surprising information or to correct something.
When to use it
Anyone can use actually with friends, family, colleagues or strangers to correct an idea or share something surprising. It is neutral. It is less suitable when no correction or surprising information is needed, and repeated corrections can sound unfriendly.
Example Sentence
Actually, I already finished the report.
Grammar & structure
Actually, + a complete sentence; or subject + actually + verb.
✓ Correct
Actually, I'd like tea, not coffee.
I actually know your sister.
Actually, the tickets were free.
✗ Incorrect
She's an actually teacher.
I actually to live near here.
Actually often comes at the start of a sentence or before the main verb. A gentle voice helps a correction sound friendly.
How to reply
Similar expressions
In fact,
Also adds surprising information or corrects an idea, but can sound a little more formal.
Well,
Can introduce a gentle correction, but also gives you time to think.
Don't confuse it with
currently
— At the present time.
I'm currently in London, but I actually live in Manchester.
Common mistakes
✗ This is an actually story.
✓ Actually, this is a true story.
Actually is not an adjective, so it cannot describe the noun story directly.
✗ I actually to like coffee.
✓ I actually like coffee.
Do not add to between actually and the main verb in this sentence.
Dialogue
Two friends are choosing lunch at a café.
Maya
Let's get chicken sandwiches.
Ben
Actually, I don't eat meat.
Maya
Oh, I didn't know that.
Ben
That's okay. The cheese sandwich looks good.
Maya
I'll have one too.
Ben
Great. Let's order.
Complete the conversation
1. A: Actually, I've already seen this film.
B: ___
2. A: Here's the coffee you ordered.
B: ___
Never forget "Actually..." again
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