Actual

/ˈaktʃuəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Existing in fact; real rather than imagined or supposed.

The actual cost of the project was much higher than anticipated.

Used for emphasis to indicate that something is true or real.

She couldn’t believe that the actual singer was performing right in front of her.

Current or present, as opposed to potential or expected.

The actual duration of the flight was shorter than the estimated time.

Being something that is not merely figurative or abstract.

The actual results of the experiment were surprising.

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

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.

act

To do something; to perform an action.

action

The process of doing something.

active

Engaged in action; not passive.

Actually cool; used to emphasize something is really good.

That concert was actual fire!

Used to emphasize the sincerity of a statement.

I'm actual serious about this job offer.