Facts can differ from what someone expects.
The idea
Use actually to introduce or emphasize the real situation, often in contrast with an assumption.
Examples
- The shop is actually closed today.
- I thought it was tea, but it is actually coffee.
- The trip actually takes an hour.
- Actually, we have already met.
- The blue box is actually lighter.
- Did the parcel actually arrive?
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Watch out
Actually does not mean at the present time; use currently for that meaning.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct word. I thought the bag was red, but it is ___ green. (actually / currently)
Show answer or example answer
actually
actually: the speaker corrects the assumed colour.
Choose the correct word. The office is open at the present time: it is ___ open. (currently / actually)
Show answer or example answer
currently
currently: the question concerns the present time.
Choose the correct word. It costs ten pounds, not twenty: it is ___ ten pounds. (actually / currently)
Show answer or example answer
actually
actually: the answer reveals the real price.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct word. I thought the bag was red, but it is ___ green. (actually / currently)
Choose the correct word. The office is open at the present time: it is ___ open. (currently / actually)
Choose the correct word. It costs ten pounds, not twenty: it is ___ ten pounds. (actually / currently)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Correct an assumption about a journey.