A transparent locution formed from en and fait, literally linking the statement to fact or reality.
Correct or reveal the reality
conversation
neutral
Introduces what is actually true, often to correct an assumption, qualify an earlier statement, or contrast reality with appearances.
Examples
- Je pensais qu'il était parti, mais en fait il travaillait dans la pièce d'à côté.I thought he had left, but in fact he was working in the next room.
- En fait, le musée ferme à dix-huit heures, pas à dix-neuf heures.Actually, the museum closes at six, not seven.
- Elle paraît sévère, mais en fait elle est très gentille.She seems strict, but in fact she is very kind.
- Nous n'avons en fait jamais reçu votre message.We have in fact never received your message.
- Il devait venir lundi. En fait, il arrivera mardi matin.He was supposed to come on Monday. Actually, he will arrive on Tuesday morning.