Actual

Pronunciation: /ˈæk.tʃu.əl/

Definitions of actual

adjective relating to real existence, not just potential or imaginary

Example Sentences

A1 The actual cost of the item is $10.

A2 I thought he was joking, but his actual intention was to help.

B1 The actual reason for his absence was never revealed.

B2 The actual impact of the new policy remains to be seen.

C1 The actual results of the experiment were unexpected.

C2 The actual significance of the discovery cannot be overstated.

Examples of actual in a Sentence

formal The actual cost of the project ended up being higher than we had anticipated.

informal I thought the movie was going to be boring, but it was actually really good.

slang I didn't believe him at first, but he actually came through for me when I needed help.

figurative Her smile may seem fake, but her concern for others is actually genuine.

Grammatical Forms of actual

• past tense: acted
• plural: actuals
• comparative: more actual
• superlative: most actual
• present tense: act
• future tense: will act
• perfect tense: have acted
• continuous tense: is acting
• singular: actual
• positive degree: actual
• infinitive: to act
• gerund: acting
• participle: acted

Origin and Evolution of actual

First Known Use: 1400 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'actual' originated from the Latin word 'actualis', which is derived from the verb 'agere' meaning 'to do' or 'to act'.

Evolution of the word: Originally, 'actual' was used in the sense of 'pertaining to action or practical use'. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to something real or existing, as opposed to something potential or theoretical.