"As a matter of fact…"

Meaning: actually; in fact

Similar Expressions

• As a matter of fact, she speaks English.
• Actually, she speaks English.
• Believe it or not, she speaks English.
• In fact, she speaks English.
• The truth is that she speaks English.

When do we use it?

We use this phrase when emphasizing that we are telling something that is true, but it is different, surprising, interesting compared to what was said before.

• She doesn't work here. As a matter of fact, she doesn't have a job at all.

We can also use this phrase to add additional information.

• She doesn't have any brothers. As a matter of fact, she doesn't have any sisters either.

We often use this phrase in reference to what another person said.

A) Did you remember to pick up milk from the store? You always forget.
B) As a matter of fact, I did get milk from the store.

How do we use it?

This phrase goes at the beginning of a sentence before we make a true statement. Put a comma after this phrase when writing.

• As a matter of fact, I don't know.
• As a matter of fact, she just walked into the room.
• As a matter of fact, our company is hiring right now.

Example English Conversation

A) Have you seen Ben? I've been looking for him everywhere.
B) As a matter of fact, I saw a few minutes ago in the break room.

It is important that you know English expressions and idioms if you want to have fluent English conversations with native English speakers or other advanced English speakers. Do not try to learn many expressions and idioms at one time. Instead, study a few of these free English lessons each week and learn the word or expression well. This will help your English vocabulary improve steadily, and you will start speaking English like a native speaker.