What is an "Actually Meme" and Why is it So Funny?
The internet is a strange and wonderful place, full of trends, slang, and inside jokes. One of the most enduring trends is the "actually meme". But what exactly is it, and why is it so funny?
"Actually memes" often take the form of humorous images or text posts that poke fun at a person's perceived lack of knowledge or understanding. The user will "correct" someone's statement or opinion with a smug "actually" before presenting their own, often factually inaccurate or exaggerated, information.
Why is it funny? The humor lies in the ironic juxtaposition of the "actually" claim with the often absurd or ridiculous information that follows. It's a playful way to highlight the differences between the two perspectives and often underscores the absurdity of taking online arguments too seriously.
Here are some common features of "actually memes":
- The "Actually" Correction: The meme will often start with a statement or opinion that is presented as incorrect. The corrector will then use "actually" to present their "correct" version, which is often hilariously wrong.
- The Smug Tone: The person presenting the "actually" information often conveys a sense of smugness or superiority. This can be done through body language, wording, or the use of emojis.
- The Absurdity: The "actually" information presented is often nonsensical, exaggerated, or completely irrelevant to the original statement.
Examples of "Actually Memes":
- Image: A picture of a person looking confused. Text: "This is how I feel when people say cats are good pets." Comment: "Actually, cats are highly intelligent creatures who are capable of complex emotions. You should do your research before making such claims."
- Text Post: "I'm so tired, I could sleep for a week straight." Comment: "Actually, you can't sleep for a week straight because you would die. That's just how the human body works."
Tips for Understanding "Actually Memes":
- Don't take them seriously: The humor in "actually memes" lies in the irony. It's meant to be a joke, so don't get caught up in the "arguments" presented.
- Pay attention to the context: "Actually memes" often rely on specific cultural references and inside jokes.
- Embrace the absurdity: The more outlandish the "actually" information, the funnier the meme.
"Actually memes" are a popular and enduring form of internet humor. They highlight the absurdity of online discourse and remind us to take ourselves less seriously. So next time you come across an "actually meme," remember to chuckle, nod your head, and appreciate the ridiculousness of it all.
Conclusion
"Actually memes" are a form of ironic humor that plays on the idea of online correction and the absurdity of taking online arguments too seriously. They often present "facts" that are hilariously wrong and highlight the differences between different perspectives. While they might seem a bit silly at times, they are a reminder to embrace the silliness of the internet and not take everything so seriously.