as a matter of fact

Meaning

This phrase is used to introduce extra information, especially when it is surprising, or to politely correct a statement that someone else made. It is similar to saying 'actually' or 'in fact'. It helps to emphasize that what you are about to say is true and relevant.

Examples

• I know him very well; as a matter of fact, we went to the same university.

  I know him very well; as a matter of fact, we went to the same university.

• Are you new to this city? As a matter of fact, I just moved here last week.

  Are you new to this city? As a matter of fact, I just moved here last week.

• The movie wasn't boring at all; as a matter of fact, it was quite exciting.

  The movie wasn't boring at all; as a matter of fact, it was quite exciting.

• I have plenty of time to help you. As a matter of fact, my afternoon is completely free.

  I have plenty of time to help you. As a matter of fact, my afternoon is completely free.

• I didn't fail the test; as a matter of fact, I got the highest grade in the class.

  I didn't fail the test; as a matter of fact, I got the highest grade in the class.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ As a matter of facts, I don't like coffee.

  ✓ As a matter of fact, I don't like coffee.

  The word 'fact' must always be singular in this set phrase.

• ✗ I don't like pizza, as the matter of fact.

  ✓ I don't like pizza, as a matter of fact.

  The correct idiom uses the indefinite article 'a' rather than the definite article 'the'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• Do you like Italian food? ___, I was just planning to go to a pizzeria.

  💡 Actually / In fact

  Show answer

  As a matter of fact

• He is not lazy; ___, he works two jobs to support his family.

  💡 to add emphasizing detail

  Show answer

  as a matter of fact