in fact/ as a matter of fact

I have problems in understanding the difference of meaning (and consequently the usage of) "in fact" and "as a matter of fact".

For exemple:

Mark's ultimate goal was to propose his very talented friend, Patrick; infact he did not publish his poems until the end of 1983, preferring to give this opportunity to his friend.

thanks

Quote:

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Originally Posted by minnie2007

I have problems in understanding the difference of meaning (and consequently the usage of) "in fact" and "as a matter of fact".

For exemple:

Mark's ultimate goal was to propose his very talented friend, Patrick;in fact he did not publish his poems until the end of 1983, preferring to give this opportunity to his friend.

thanks

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They are different in meaning:

in fact = in reality

a matter of fact = something that is true

In your sentence, you could replace "in fact" with "it is a matter of fact that" - it slightly alters the sense of the sentence.

As it is, it is saying "in reality he did not publish...". By changing it to "it is...", the sense becomes "The fact is that he did not..."

I see and, thanks to your explanatiion I think the one that best translates my idea is the first sentence (infact)

Minnie - ALWAYS "in fact" - never "infact"