fact
/fækt/
A statement of objective truth that remains true regardless of individual belief or opinion. It carries a weight of certainty and finality, often used to shut down debate or provide a foundation for an argument. In contrast to 'truth', which can be subjective or philosophical, a 'fact' is typically verifiable through evidence or observation. It represents the concrete "what is" of a situation. Often used in formal, scientific, or legal contexts where precision and empirical proof are paramount. When used colloquially (e.g., "the fact of the matter"), it emphasizes reality over perception.
Countable when referring to a single piece of information ('one interesting fact'). Uncountable when referring to the overall reality or truth of a situation ('the facts of the case').
💬Casual Conversation
Consistency and leveraging your strengths are key deliverables. That's a fact.
Okay, Boomer. It's called 'grinding' and you get loot.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
historical fact
Something that is known to have happened or existed in the past.
The existence of the pyramids is a historical fact.
scientific fact
A statement or concept that is proven to be true through the scientific method.
The Earth revolves around the Sun is a scientific fact.
plain fact
Something that is definitely true and cannot be disputed.
It's a plain fact that he was late for the meeting.
a matter of fact
Used to emphasize that something is true, often when it might be surprising.
He's not just good, he's the best player on the team; in a matter of fact, he's the best I've ever seen.
hard fact
A fact that is true and cannot be changed or argued with.
We must deal with the hard facts of the situation.
Idioms & Sayings
face the facts
To accept and deal with an unpleasant reality.
You need to face the facts: the company is losing money.
get the facts
To obtain accurate information about a situation.
Let's get the facts straight before we make any decisions.
twist the facts
To present information in a way that is misleading or dishonest.
He tried to twist the facts to make himself look better.
fact of life
Something that is unavoidable and must be accepted.
Aging is a fact of life that everyone experiences.
in point of fact
Actually; in reality.
I thought he was joking, but in point of fact, he was quite serious.
Etymology
The word 'fact' comes from the Latin word 'factum', meaning 'a deed' or 'something done'. It entered English around the 14th century, initially referring to actions or deeds. By the 15th century, its meaning evolved to encompass things that have happened or are true, aligning with its modern sense of verifiable reality.