Part 1: 5 ways to use 'actually' - English In A Minute

We use it to talk about what is true, like the word really.

Are bats actually blind?

We use it to correct or contradict.

Are you from London, Sam?

Actually, no.

I'm from Oxford.

We use it to emphasise that something is different or surprising.

I love fish, but I actually don't like prawns.

We use it to admit or confess to something.

Did you eat the last chocolate, Sam?

Actually, yes. I did.

And we use it to add information.

I'm a teacher and so are both my parents, actually.

So it's actually quite a useful word.