actual
[adjective]
Synonyms: definite, concrete, factual, physical, positive, real, substantial, tangible

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Antonyms: possible, potential, apparent, nominal, ideal, imaginary
Contrasted words: conjectural, hypothetical, theoretical, putative, reputed, supposititious, abstract, transcendent, transcendental, academic, speculative, fabulous, fictitious, mythical
Related Words: commonplace, everyday, ordinary, routine, usual, concrete, real, tangible, material, objective, phenomenal, physical, authentic, bona fide, legitimate

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

ac‧tu‧al S1 W2 /ˈæktʃuəl/ adjective [only before noun]
[Date: 1300-1400; Language: Old French; Origin: actuel, from Late Latin actualis, from Latin actus; ⇒ ACT¹]

1. used to emphasize that something is real or exact:
I’m not joking. Those were his actual words.
I know Germany won, but I can’t tell you the actual score.
Interest is only charged on the actual amount borrowed.
In actual fact (=really), there is little evidence to support the allegations.
► Do not use actual to mean ‘at the present time’. Use current or present: the current (NOT actual) economic policy

2. the actual something used to introduce the most important part of an event or activity:
The programme starts at 8.00 but the actual film doesn’t start until 8.30.

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

actual
adjective
BAD: We'd like to know more about the actual crisis (Not the economic problems of the past).
GOOD: We'd like to know more about the present crisis (Not the economic problems of the past).
BAD: My actual job involves a lot of administration.
GOOD: My present job involves a lot of administration.

Usage Note:
actual = real (as opposed what is believed, planned or expected): 'People think he is over fifty but his actual age is forty-eight.' 'Although buses are supposed to run every fifteen minutes, the actual waiting time can be up to an hour.'
present/current = happening or existing now: 'No one can drive that car in its present condition.' 'Her current boyfriend works for Shell.'

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Common Errors ▲