Or rather vs. in fact

[motico]

1. For the last few years, or rather, from his wife's death, Mr. Smith has been melancholic.

2. For the last few years, in fact, from his wife's death, Mr. Smith has been melancholic.



Which sentence is correct?

Another question: Does the expression: "safe haven" have a plural form?

"The refugees found a safe haven / safe havens in the neighboring countries" ​

 

[Raymott]

1. For the last few years, or rather, from his wife's death, Mr. Smith has been melancholic.

2. For the last few years, in fact, from his wife's death, Mr. Smith has been melancholic.

Which sentence is correct?
They're both possible. The meaning is clearer using 'since' rather than 'from'.

Another question: Does the expression: "safe haven" have a plural form?
Yes.
"The refugees found a safe haven / safe havens in the neighboring countries" ​

R.