Dictionary-enhanced word family
Word Forms of “Actually”
In fact or really. Used to say what is true, especially when it's different from what others think.
Word Family of Actually
How to Use Each Word Form in a Sentence
- I thought it would rain, but it actually stayed sunny all day. A2
- He said he was busy, but actually he forgot the appointment. B1
- The statistical data, actually, reveals a more nuanced pattern than commonly assumed. B2
Word Form Patterns for Actually
-ity
Adds **-ity** to form an abstract noun about a quality or state. Example: actually → actuality.
-al
Adds **-al** to form an adjective meaning relating to. Example: actually → actual.
Origin and Word Formation of Actually
From 'actual' plus adverb suffix '-ly' (around 1500s).
'Actually' is one of the most frequently used discourse markers in English conversation, often used to soften corrections or disagreements.
Common Word Form Mistakes with Actually
Wrong: He actually went to store yesterday.
Correct: He actually went to the store yesterday.
Nouns need articles. Use 'the store' (specific store) or 'a store' (any store), not 'store' alone.
Wrong: I'm actually agree with your point.
Correct: I actually agree with your point.
Use 'actually' with the simple verb, not with 'be + verb'; remove 'am'.
Frequently Asked Questions About Word Forms of Actually
What are the word forms of “actually”?
The confirmed forms are shown in the word family cards above. Missing parts of speech are hidden instead of filled with placeholder text.
What part of speech is “actually”?
“actually” is primarily a adv. Some forms above show how the same root works as other parts of speech.
Where does “actually” come from?
From 'actual' plus adverb suffix '-ly' (around 1500s).