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Why 'Actually' Doesn't Mean What You Think It Means
Why 'Actually' Doesn't Mean What You Think It Means
02:52
Dec 7, 2025 11:05 PM
Description
You know the word "actually" means "in reality" — but why does it sometimes sound polite and sometimes sound passive-aggressive? In this episode, we break down the four ways native speakers actually use "actually": softening corrections, expressing surprise, emphasizing clarity, and (if you're not careful) sounding defensive. The dictionary definition only tells part of the story. This episode teaches you how tone and context turn a simple word into a powerful tool for managing conversations — or accidentally starting arguments.
Podcast Channel
The English Exchange
Author