Actual/ˈæktʃuəl/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Unexpected Reality Use 'actual' to discuss something that is surprisingly different from what was assumed. The actual outcome was completely unexpected. Pro Tip 2/3Reality Check 'Actual' often contrasts reality with a misconception or a hypothetical scenario. She thought it would be easy, but the actual work was very tough. Pro Tip 3/3Clarification Use 'actual' to correct a false impression or to clarify a misunderstanding. No, the actual distance is much longer than that.