fact · n
despite the fact that
B2 used to refer to a situation which is surprising in relation to something that is true or happens
Dictionary examples:
The company has been forced to reduce its price, despite the fact that the offer has been very popular. (51.5)
fact (REAL THINGS)
B2 real events and experiences, not things that are imagined
Dictionary examples:
It's sometimes hard to separate fact from fiction. (40.0)
as a matter of fact
B2 used to give more information, or to correct something that has been said
Dictionary examples:
"So you're from Cambridge?" "No, as a matter of fact, I'm from Bristol." (26.4)
John plays golf professionally. As a matter of fact, he has just won a big competition. (36.3)
fact (TRUE THING)
A2 something that you know is true, exists, or has happened
Dictionary examples:
It's a fact that my phone only dies when I need it most. (0.0)
It's a fact: my dog ate my homework and my teacher's lunch! (0.0)
The fact that I can't cook doesn't stop me from burning food. (0.0)
I don't know all the facts about what happened. (13.8)
I knew for a fact that she was lying. (28.6)
I'm not angry that you took my car - it's just the fact that you didn't ask me first. (49.6)
the fact (of the matter) is
B2 used to tell someone that something is the truth
Dictionary examples:
I wouldn't usually ask for your help, but the fact is I'm desperate. (33.7)
in fact
B1 used to emphasize what is really true, or to give more information
Dictionary examples:
She said she was a little late. In fact, the party ended yesterday! (0.0)
I thought I was good at math. In fact, 2+2=5 in my world! (0.0)
I thought I was invisible. In fact, everyone was just ignoring me! (0.0)
We met Rebecca for lunch. In fact, we spent the whole afternoon with her. (12.4)
I was told there were some tickets left but in fact they were sold out. (21.1)