The difference between Actual and Theoretical

When used as adjectives, actual means relating to a person's acts or deeds, whereas theoretical means of or relating to theory.


Actual is also noun with the meaning: something actually received.

check bellow for the other definitions of Actual and Theoretical

  1. Actual as an adjective (chiefly, theology):

    Relating to a person's acts or deeds; active, practical.

  2. Actual as an adjective:

    Existing in reality, not just potentially; really acted or acting; occurring in fact.

    Examples:

    "the actual cost of goods; the actual case under discussion"

    "The actual government expenses dramatically exceed the budget."

  3. Actual as an adjective (now, rare):

    In action at the time being; now existing; current.

  4. Actual as an adjective:

    Used as intensifier to emphasise a following noun; exact, very.

  1. Actual as a noun (finance):

    An actual, real one; notably: Something actually received; real receipts, as distinct from estimated ones. A radio callsign modifier that specifies the commanding officer of the unit or asset denoted by the remainder of the callsign and not the officer's assistant or other designee.

    Examples:

    "Bravo Six Actual, this is Charlie One. Come in, over.'' (The radio operator is requesting to speak to the commander of the unit under the call sign "Bravo Six.")"

  1. Theoretical as an adjective:

    Of or relating to theory; abstract; not empirical.