matter-of-fact

adjective

mat·​ter-of-fact ˌma-tər-ə(v)-ˈfakt How to pronounce matter-of-fact (audio)
: adhering to the unembellished facts
also : being plain, straightforward, or unemotional
matter-of-factly adverb
matter-of-factness noun

Examples of matter-of-fact in a Sentence

a matter-of-fact recitation of the events of the last week a matter-of-fact woman who didn't worry about "what ifs"
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her jaded, matter-of-fact assessment of courtship is a breath of fresh air for a genre where women are so often swayed by flowers and romantic dinners. Scott Phillips, Forbes.com, 11 June 2025 But Marist coach Colleen Phelan was matter-of-fact and stoic about a season that ended a bit earlier than was expected. Tony Baranek, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2025 Although my decision was fueled by single-parent shame, his decision was matter-of-fact. Kim O’Hara, Los Angeles Times, 6 June 2025 Manager Ron Washington was matter-of-fact in discussing the final call from umpire Ben May. Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for matter-of-fact

Word History

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of matter-of-fact was in 1712

Cite this Entry

“Matter-of-fact.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matter-of-fact. Accessed 16 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

matter-of-fact

adjective
mat·​ter-of-fact
ˌmat-ə-rə(v)-ˈfakt
: sticking to fact
a matter-of-fact account
also : being plain, straightforward, or unemotional
described the accident in a matter-of-fact way
matter-of-factly
-ˈfak-(t)lē
adverb

Legal Definition

matter of fact

see matter

More from Merriam-Webster on matter-of-fact

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