How to say “in fact” like a native speaker
Use this to add a more precise fact, strengthen a point or correct an impression. The following information should support the contrast you are making.
All phrases · Small talk
Hear “in fact” in real speech
Clip 1 · Simon Sinek
How Great Leaders Inspire Action | Simon Sinek | TED · 5:03
About this video
Simon Sinek explores why some leaders and organisations inspire people to act. He introduces examples involving Apple and Martin Luther King and compares the resources available to people pursuing ambitious ideas.
In context
Their competitors are equally qualified to make all of these products.In fact, they tried.
A few years ago, Gateway came out with flat-screen TVs.
Clip 2 · Sir Ken Robinson
Do schools kill creativity? | Sir Ken Robinson | TED · 0:35
About this video
Ken Robinson asks whether schools give creativity enough room. He discusses different forms of human ability and questions an education system that he says places university professors at the top.
In context
I've been blown away by the whole thing.In fact, I'm leaving.
There have been three themes running through the conference, which are relevant to what I want to talk about.
Clip 3 · Learn English with Bob the Canadian
Let's Learn English! Topic: What is That Thing? 📢📼🧲 (Lesson Only) · 23:22
About this video
Bob the Canadian teaches the English names of everyday objects he noticed over several days. His examples include curtain rods, hanging baskets and rain barrels.
In context
I don't think the gas would slosh enough to splash out.In fact, I think cars prevent that.
But yes, that is the gas cap.
When to use “in fact”
- Correcting an assumption: “It wasn't expensive. In fact, it was free.”
- Adding a stronger detail: “I liked the book. In fact, I read it twice.”
Possible connected-speech patterns in “in fact”
The N goes straight into F. Keep the final consonants of “fact” compact rather than adding another syllable.
Related phrases
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You don't need to speak fast.
A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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