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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.

Those receiving Social Security won’t find out the actual cost-of-living adjustment until October.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

Some of Coachella’s most elite attendees won’t spend their day at the actual festival, choosing instead to hop between the many exclusive day parties, powered by brands like Revolve.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

“As always,” the legal employee battling the chatbot said, “I ended up just using my real, actual brain.”

From Slate • Apr. 9, 2026

A big reason is psychological: It takes lots of evidence to convince people something unthinkable might be about to happen like major banks collapsing, a pandemic or actual fuel shortages.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

I was so excited about my discovery that I didn’t consider the actual process of sorting through garbage.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

Vocabulary lists containing actual

Spelling Practice, Unit 3

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