actual
adjective [ before noun ] uk/ˈæk.tʃu.əl/ us/ˈæk.tʃu.əl/
B2 现实的，实际的；真实的，真正的
existing in fact
We had estimated about 300 visitors, but the actual number was much higher. 我们估计大约会有300名来宾，可实到人数要多得多。
The exams are in July, but the actual results (= the results themselves) don't appear until September. 考试是在7月份，但是真正成绩公布要等到9月份。
Synonym: real (NOT IMAGINARY)
in actual factB2 实际上，事实上
really
I thought she was Portuguese, but in actual fact she's Brazilian. 我以为她是葡萄牙人，可实际上她是巴西人。
I realized that in actual fact the event took place a day later than I'd thought.
He told us he was at his friend's when in actual fact he was at Anna's house.
Patients thought they were getting the new drug. In actual fact, they weren't.
- More examples
- I often prefer the ads on TV to the actual programmes.
- The documentary was a misrepresentation of the truth and bore little resemblance to actual events.
- The actual signing of the treaty was a downbeat affair without any ceremony.
- Their predictions were hopelessly out of line with the actual results.
- He said he went to Florida for medical treatment, but in actual fact he was trying to escape from the British police.