English Profile

fact · noun

/fækt/Full view

Word family

Nouns: fact

Adjectives: factual

Adverbs: factually

fact (TRUE THING)

A2 C something that you know is true, exists, or has happened

Dictionary examples:

I don't know all the facts about what happened.

I'm not angry that you took my car - it's just the fact that you didn't ask me first.

I knew for a fact that she was lying.

Learner example:

I love this book, because it's about history facts and it['s] very interestin[g]. (Key English Test; A2; Russian)

in fact

B1 used to emphasize what is really true, or to give more information

Dictionary examples:

We met Rebecca for lunch. In fact, we spent the whole afternoon with her.

I was told there were some tickets left but in fact they were sold out.

Learner example:

The club has its own small clubhouse, with many things in it. For example, there was a big pinball-game and some computers. In fact it was the best clubhouse I've ever seen. (Preliminary English Test; B1; German)

despite the fact that

B2 used to refer to a situation which is surprising in relation to something that is true or happens

Dictionary example:

The company has been forced to reduce its price, despite the fact that the offer has been very popular.

Learner example:

The advantages of the kind of life that people ha[d] years ago is that they could eat more fruit and vegetables than us. However, there are advantages for us too, because despite the fact that we eat more fast food, we do more exercise than they [did]. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

fact (REAL THINGS)

B2 U real events and experiences, not things that are imagined

Dictionary example:

It's sometimes hard to separate fact from fiction.

as a matter of fact

B2 used to give more information, or to correct something that has been said

Dictionary examples:

John plays golf professionally. As a matter of fact, he has just won a big competition.

"So you're from Cambridge?" "No, as a matter of fact, I'm from Bristol."

Learner example:

I think it would be better to choose somewhere outdoors. As a matter of fact, I prefer the open air and the sunlight! (First Certificate in English; B2; Italian)

the fact (of the matter) is

B2 used to tell someone that something is the truth

Dictionary example:

I wouldn't usually ask for your help, but the fact is I'm desperate.

Learner example:

You may find [it] unusual for a woman to play football, but the fact is I'm Brazilian and in Brazil [it] is really common. (First Certificate in English; B2; Portuguese)