ACTUAL Synonyms: 91 Similar and Opposite Words

actual

adjective

ˈak-ch(ə-w)əl

Definition of actual

as in real

existing in fact and not merely as a possibility the actual outcome of the election was quite different from what everybody had expected

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of actual One combat sequence at the end is genuinely excellent because the film puts actual creative effort into staging a knife-versus-ax duel on a gangplank that sways back and forth over the water. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026 The actual outcome depends on labor law, union density, corporate incentive structures, and the balance of power between employers and employees. — Dan Schawbel, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2026 The actual number of people infected with multiple pathogens could be higher because of how cultures are taken and tested when someone becomes ill, according to Marler. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2026 Generally, the closer my preseason ranking came to a team’s final ranking in the actual Top 25, the better the grade. — Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for actual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for actual

Adjective

The real insider move, however, is Bar Analco, the speakeasy hidden behind the Dragon Room Bar and reserved exclusively for hotel guests.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026
But his effort is the real X-factor, as Pierre’s relentless approach to every rep can be difficult for offensive linemen to endure over the course of a game.

— Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of real

Adjective

Only factual errors can be corrected, not subjective decisions.

— Graham Scott, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026
Dated over 2,000 years ago, these manuscripts shatter claims that Jewish connection to the land is a modern invention, offering a factual foundation for peace and reconciliation.

— Staff, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of factual

Adjective

But the truer thread running through his music was as much about urgency as death.

— Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Among those in the record crowd was former Orlando Magic star Grant Hill, whose daughter Lael is a true freshman defender from Windermere for the Gators and a product of Lake Highland Prep.

— Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026