third-person singular verb
It takes action in response to a problem or situation instead of only thinking or talking about it.
The city acts quickly after a storm.
The government acts on expert advice.
American English
How to pronounce acts
verb · nounB1Very common word
AAKTS
/ækts/
One syllable.
Form of act
Acts can be a plural noun or a verb used with he, she, or it.
It takes action in response to a problem or situation instead of only thinking or talking about it.
What to listen for
In natural connected speech, acts may sound like /æks/ because the /t/ can disappear from the final consonant group. When you say the word alone or emphasize it, use /ækts/.
Meanings & examples
third-person singular verb
It behaves in a particular way, especially in a particular situation.
She acts calmly under pressure.
He acts like a child when he is tired.
third-person singular verb
It pretends to be someone or to have a feeling that it does not really have.
She acts as if she knows the answer.
He acts surprised when we arrive.
third-person singular verb
It performs as an actor in a play, movie, television show, or other production.
She acts in a popular TV show.
The actress acts on Broadway every year.
Useful expressions
to serve in a particular role or function
This room acts as a meeting space.
to behave badly or fail to work correctly
My old laptop is acting up again.
to pretend to have a certain feeling or behavior
He was putting on an act for the cameras.