Meaning & Definition of word "Actual"

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.