Separate a real fact from a present situation.

The idea

Actually introduces or emphasizes what is really true. Currently means at the present time.

Patterns to compare
WordMeaning
actuallyin fact; really
currentlyat present

Examples

  • The café is actually open on Sundays.
  • I thought the bag was black; it is actually blue.
  • The answer is actually quite simple.
  • Mina is currently working at a library.
  • The bridge is currently closed for repairs.
  • We currently live near the station.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.

Watch out

Do not use actually just to mean now: it can suggest a correction or contrast.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the word that emphasizes a correction. I thought the museum was closed, but it is ___ open. (actually / currently)

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    actually

    The museum is open despite the expectation: actually.

  2. Choose the word that means at present. The team is ___ building a new playground this month. (actually / currently)

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    currently

    The project is happening at present: currently.

  3. Choose the word that emphasizes a correction. I expected ten euros; the ticket is ___ eight. (actually / currently)

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    actually

    The price corrects the earlier belief: actually.

Use it today

Write one sentence correcting a belief and another describing your present situation.