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Showing results for actual. Search instead for actua.
Definitions

actual

[ak-choo-uhl] / ˈæk tʃu əl /
ADJECTIVE
truly existing, real
Synonyms
STRONGEST
certain existing for-real physical real substantial substantive
WEAK
authentic concrete confirmed factual genuine hard honest-to-God honest-to-goodness indisputable indubitable kosher positive sure-enough tangible true undeniable unquestionable verified
Antonyms
STRONGEST
mental spiritual uncertain unfixed
WEAK
counterfeit false fictitious hypothetical imaginary legendary nominal past pretended reputed theoretical unreal
ADJECTIVE
existing at the present time
Synonyms
STRONGEST
current exact original
STRONG
existent
WEAK
extant live living prevailing
Antonyms
STRONGEST
old
WEAK
counterfeit false fictitious hypothetical imaginary legendary nominal past pretended reputed theoretical

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For many, the idea of filming and broadcasting such intimate moments, including the actual birth of their child, would be unthinkable.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

“Of course I like to show the great future, the big dream. But we have to show the actual data, the actual result. That is the key for my company.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Sax argues, “That desire fits this very base desire as humans, which is to touch things, to interact with things, to buy things, to do actual things outside of our screens.”

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Those were just side effects of the actual mission: solving hard problems.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

“I know he’s my actual uncle, but why can’t he stay where the other strays do?”

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.