Meaning & Definition of word "Actual"

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    Actual

    /ˈaktʃuəl/

    adjective:

    • 1. Existing in fact; real rather than imagined or supposed.
      • Example: The actual cost of the project was much higher than anticipated.
    • 2. Used for emphasis to indicate that something is true or real.
      • Example: She couldn’t believe that the actual singer was performing right in front of her.
    • 3. Current or present, as opposed to potential or expected.
      • Example: The actual duration of the flight was shorter than the estimated time.
    • 4. Being something that is not merely figurative or abstract.
      • Example: The actual results of the experiment were surprising.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English: from late Latin actualis, from actus ‘a doing, a deed’.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    the actual fact:

    The true situation or reality of something.

    actual damages:

    Compensation for proven losses.

    actual performance:

    The real outcome of a certain task or activity.

    Related Words

    act:

    To do something; to perform an action.

    action:

    The process of doing something.

    active:

    Engaged in action; not passive.

    Slang Meanings of actual

    Meaning: Actually cool; used to emphasize something is really good.

    Example Sentence: That concert was actual fire!

    Meaning: Used to emphasize the sincerity of a statement.

    Example Sentence: I'm actual serious about this job offer.