matter of fact
The phrase "matter of fact" is used to describe a style of communication that is direct and focused on facts, as well as a legal term referring to factual circumstances in a case.
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Definition
B2General Communication
(informal)Describing a way of speaking or writing that is direct, straightforward, and unemotional.
Example
- She explained the situation in a matter-of-fact tone, without showing any emotion.
C1Legal
(technical)An issue concerning the factual details of a legal case, as opposed to legal principles.
Example
- The jury must decide on the matter of fact before the judge rules on the matter of law.
B2Idiomatic Expression
(informal)Used to emphasize that what is being said is true or to correct a previous assumption.
Example
- I thought you were coming later, but as a matter of fact, you're right on time.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "matter of fact":
in factfor a factmatter of recordmatter of coursematerial factde factothe fact thatfacts on the ground