📒 a thing that is known to be true, especially when it can be proved
- fact about something First, some basic facts about healthy eating.
- fact (that)… Isn't it a fact that the firm is losing money?
- It's a well-known fact that dogs have an acute sense of smell.
📒 things that are true rather than things that have been invented
- The story is based on fact.
- Is the account fact or fiction?
- This is simply historical fact.
📒 used to refer to a particular situation that exists
- the fact that… I could no longer ignore the fact that he was unhappy.
- We don't hide the fact that we've made mistakes.
- I did everything I could, and she acknowledged the fact.
📒 after something has happened or been done, when it is too late to prevent it or change it
- On some vital decisions employees were only informed after the fact.
📒 used to add a comment on something that you have just said, usually adding something that you think the other person will be interested in
- It's a nice place. We've stayed there ourselves, as a matter of fact.
📒 used to disagree with something that somebody has just said
- ‘I suppose you'll be leaving soon, then?’ ‘No, as a matter of fact I'll be staying for another two years.’
📒 used to emphasize a statement, especially one that is the opposite of what has just been mentioned
- A new car would be wonderful but the fact of the matter is that we can't afford one.
📒 a situation that cannot be changed, especially one that is unpleasant
- Illness is just a fact of life.
- It’s a fact of life that some people will always be racist.
- a rather harsh fact of life
📒 accurate and detailed information
- I've asked to see all the facts and figures before I make a decision.
- All the facts and figures were presented at the meeting.
📒 the details about sex and about how babies are born, especially as told to children
📒 it is not necessary to give any further explanation about something because the information that is available already proves that it is true
📒 used to give extra details about something that has just been mentioned
- I used to live in France; in fact, not far from where you're going.
📒 used to emphasize a statement, especially one that is the opposite of what has just been mentioned
- I thought the work would be difficult. In actual fact, it's very easy.
📒 used to say what is true in a situation
- In point of fact, she is their adopted daughter.
📒 used to reply to a statement that you find interesting or surprising, or that you do not believe
- ‘She says I'm one of the best students she's ever taught.’ ‘Is that a fact?’