Why do police officers often add the word "actually" to what they say?

Question

They say things like "And the suspect was driving a red escort that was actually the stolen vehicle" or "The defendant actually admitted to having possession of the knife, which he had actually used to threaten the shopkeeper"

The word "actually" is completely unnecessary, so why do they use it?

(anyone who answers with lots of actuallys will actually get a thumbs down. Actually.)

Answer 1

Because they have to specify whether something was an actual fact or an alleged fact.

Example : They either know for a fact that the car being driven was stolen, therefore it was 'actually' stolen, or they suspect or have been told the car being driven was stolen therefore they would say it was either 'suspected to be' stolen or 'allegedly stolen'.

Answer 2

A common question I wrote up this handout I give to students. There are a number of stories of why police are called cops. 1. The first professional police force was founded in London by Sir Robert Peale. It was in 1829. The officers were known affectionately as “Bobbies” referring to Sir Robert. The Irish hated him and called the police sent to keep them in line “pealers”. That sounds a lot like squealers. The Irish did not hold the police in high regard. 2. Originally the officers wore a badge of office but there was nothing to identify the individual officer. Peale added numbers to the badges, they were made out of copper, hence the name copper or cop. 3. In 1845, New York established the nations first official police force. They wore copper badges, so people called the officers "coppers" which was later shortened to "cops". 4. The power of some police came from the common law idea that judges needed a method to enforce their edicts, these enforcers were constables and bailiffs. Police walk around a set area called their patrol area. Cop stands for Constable On Patrol.

Answer 3

Where are you hearing this? On television?



Police officers have a huge range of educational backgrounds. I know some officers that have only so-so writing skills and can't survive without spell check. Some try to write as they speak, which often doesn't sound good when in print. Some officers have excellent language skills because they may have an English major from college.

I used to be a teacher before I became an officer and I'm a bit of a spelling Nazi.

Answer 4

Hmm, interesting. I've been around a lot of police officers and haven't really ever heard them use "actually" all that often. If they are using "actually" is probably means that they are contradicting what their suspect is saying with the truth rather than the suspects story.

Answer 5

It is not only police officers that speak like this. Consider the following and and then ask yourself how many times you have heard at least some of the superfluous interjections today.



'Basically, it is not actually only police officers right, that speak like this right because basically everybody does it right and I'll see yer later right and we can actually talk about it some more right.'

Answer 6

Also whenever you come out with a statement which may be contrary to their way of thought or reasoning, they ALWAYS say 'pardon'. That makes you repeat the line, or not depending on how intimidated you are.

I usually ask them if they suffer from an ear infection, or say pardon back.

Is all part of the psychological training, for them to manage and take charge of a given situation. They also say 'do you understand' after reciting the right to remain silent rubbish. There is nothing wrong in saying 'no'. And of course say nothing if you wish - it is your right. You can then say at a later date you felt intimidated so said nothing so as not to incriminate yourself.

The police are only human like us. Their arrogant, overbearing attitude is learnt from training. The word 'actually' is part of this - to reiterate the statement and come across as heavy handed. It cuts little ice with me, i'm afraid.

Answer 7

Because Actuality states certainty and in a case where the Police have to be adamant on the series of actions, it is important to state certainly to the jury and judge.

Answer 8

They say actually in an exaggerated and dramatised manner in order to emphasise their argument and thus to make it appear stronger.



Oh, and I only said actually once, now twice and you said it six times so does that mean that I actually get a thumbs up?

Answer 9

Well, I suppose it is used to emphasise reality, just in case there's the odd person who cracks up with laughter, i.e. "A red Escort? Pfft! HA! He could've picked a better car!"

Answer 10

LMAO! Oh God, when I read this question I could hear my brother-in-law in my head. He ALWAYS says "actually", no matter what he is talking about! He's a police officer, obviously lol. I don't know why they say it, I never noticed it among other police officers, but yeah, my BIL says it ALL the time.

Answer 11

Many people in different positions use adjectives:

Doctors have their own terms

Lawyers

Military

Politicans etc.....

I just met this girl from California and she seemed ok until she started to speak.

Like everytime she Like said a word,Like I dont know how to like explain it!!

Answer 12

A lot of people seem to overuse the word actually.

Answer 13

Like Michelle, I think you mean allegedly.



Law enforcement has to use that word until the accused is convicted.

Answer 14

Actually I do not say that, the words I use is "you are nicked"



Edit: Pebbles, I thought all paddy`s were w@@@ers

Answer 15

THEY DEAL IN FACTS.therefor it is actually good grammar .and adds to the point they want to get across.

Answer 16

This is part of the literacy training too show that they have something inside thier hats. You will find that the smaller the policeman the bigger the words they will use.

Answer 17

Are you sure you aren't meaning they use the word "Allegedly" Not Actually.

Answer 18

Never noticed this nor does it appear have any other sensible people on here

Answer 19

I don't speak to the police enough to have formed an opinion on how they speak.

Answer 20

I dont know about actually but i always get the "course you were son" or "they all say that" or when you ask them how much they get paid they ALWAYS say "not enough" lmaooo......**** the police

Answer 21

cause its free. it doesnt use up any natural resources. and its high in fiber.

Answer 22

they deal in a world of lies and falsehoods. the "actual" fact is highlighted in this manner.

Answer 23

Because they're not allowed to say "we are a bunch of **** ups"

Answer 24

Its because they are w*nkers