Getting tripped up by a tiny space between two words is more common than you’d think. Many people write “infact” as one word, especially in casual writing or texting. However, that little space changes everything.
This article digs deep into the question: “Infact or In Fact – which is grammatically correct?”
We’ll explain the right answer, explore the meaning, clear up misconceptions, and share real-world usage examples so you can write with confidence.
Stop Writing “Infact” — Here’s Why It’s Wrong
It’s easy to assume that infact is just a more compact version of in fact. But English grammar doesn’t see it that way.
“Infact” is not a recognized word in the English language.
Using infact in essays, emails, or official documents makes your writing look unpolished. Whether you’re preparing for exams, drafting a report, or posting on social media, getting this right matters.
Here’s the quick truth:
âś… Correct: in fact
❌ Incorrect: infact
The Quick Answer
Let’s start with a straightforward answer:
Always write it as two words: “in fact.”
The two-word phrase is standard in both American and British English. Dictionaries such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and Cambridge list only “in fact”.
Here are two quick examples to keep in mind:
- âś… I thought the exam would be tough. In fact, it was quite easy.
- ❌ I thought the exam would be tough. Infact, it was quite easy.
The difference is more than spelling. The two-word form conveys meaning, while the single word is simply an error.
What “In Fact” Actually Means
Definition
“In fact” is an adverbial phrase used to:
- Emphasize truth or reality.
- Add a surprising detail.
- Correct or contrast a previous statement.
For example:
I thought he was a newcomer. In fact, he has been working here for years.
Origins
The phrase “in fact” comes from medieval English and literally means “in reality” or “in deed.”
Writers in the 16th century began using it to stress what is genuinely true.
Synonyms
Sometimes you can replace “in fact” with other expressions without changing the meaning:
- indeed
- actually
- as a matter of fact
- truly
- certainly
Example Sentences with Synonyms:
- The rumor seemed unbelievable. Indeed, it turned out to be true.
- She appeared calm. Actually, she was nervous.
- He didn’t hesitate. As a matter of fact, he volunteered.
💡 Tip: “In fact” is slightly more formal and fits academic, journalistic, and professional contexts better than most synonyms.
Understanding the Misconception About “Infact”
Why do so many people write “infact” as one word?
Here are the main reasons:
- Phonetic typing: People often type as they speak, making them overlook the space.
- Texting culture: Quick messages on phones encourage shortcuts and misspellings.
- Autocorrect errors: Some devices don’t flag “infact” as incorrect.
- Lack of awareness: Non-native speakers sometimes assume it’s one word.
But no matter the reason, “infact” is not accepted in standard English.
Other commonly confused words that follow a similar pattern:
- ❌ alot → ✅ a lot
- ❌ infront → ✅ in front
- ❌ everytime → ✅ every time
Knowing this can help you avoid repeating the same mistake.
Grammar Rules and Sentence Placement for “In Fact”
One of the strengths of “in fact” is its flexibility. You can use it in different parts of a sentence to emphasize or clarify information.
At the Beginning
Often used to introduce contrast or clarification:
In fact, the new software made the task easier.
In the Middle
Placed between commas to add emphasis:
The manager, in fact, praised the entire team.
At the End
Less common but still correct:
The book is informative and enjoyable in fact.
Punctuation Tips
- When used in the middle, set it off with commas.
- Avoid unnecessary commas before or after unless needed for clarity.
- Do not capitalize in fact unless it starts a sentence.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Infact vs. In Fact
| Aspect | Infact (Incorrect) | In Fact (Correct) |
|---|---|---|
| Part of Speech | Not a word | Adverbial phrase |
| Presence in Dictionaries | ❌ Not listed | ✅ Found in all major dictionaries |
| Meaning | None | Means actually, in reality |
| Example | ❌ I like chocolate infact. | ✅ I like chocolate, in fact. |
| Acceptability | Informal / wrong | Standard English (US & UK) |
| Formal Writing | ❌ Not acceptable | ✅ Fully acceptable |
âś… Remember: If you want your writing to be credible, always separate the two words.
Real-World Examples of “In Fact”
From Literature
“There are no secrets that time does not reveal. In fact, it is the discovery of such secrets that makes history.”
— George Santayana
“We do not see things as they are. In fact, we see them as we are.”
— Anaïs Nin
From Famous Speeches
“We have nothing to fear but fear itself. In fact, our strength grows when we face adversity.”
— Adapted from Franklin D. Roosevelt
“The fight for freedom is never easy. In fact, it demands sacrifice.”
— Paraphrased from Martin Luther King Jr.
From Everyday Conversations
- I thought the restaurant would be expensive. In fact, it was affordable.
- He seems shy. In fact, he’s very outgoing once you talk to him.
- I didn’t plan to buy anything. In fact, I ended up shopping for hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are frequent errors writers make with this phrase:
- Writing “infact” as one word: Always incorrect.
- Overusing “in fact”: Use it sparingly to keep writing sharp.
- Misplacing commas: Remember to set it off with commas when used in the middle.
- Using it redundantly: Avoid repetitive phrases like “In fact, actually.”
Versatility and Impact of “In Fact”
Why is this phrase so popular and powerful?
- Adds emphasis: Highlights the truth of a statement.
- Strengthens arguments: Useful in essays and debates.
- Improves clarity: Guides the reader to the key point.
- Fits multiple contexts: Works in casual speech, academic writing, and persuasive pieces.
Example Comparison:
| Without “In Fact” | With “In Fact” |
|---|---|
| The experiment proved the theory. | The experiment, in fact, proved the theory. |
| Many people doubted the idea. | Many people doubted the idea. In fact, they opposed it at first. |
Notice how the second versions feel more confident and persuasive.
FAQs About “In Fact”
Is “infact” ever correct?
No. “Infact” is always incorrect. Stick to the two-word form.
Is “in fact” formal enough for academic writing?
Yes. It’s widely accepted in academic and professional contexts.
Is “in fact” used in American or British English?
Both. It appears in dictionaries and style guides on both sides of the Atlantic.
Where should “in fact” be placed in a sentence?
It can be at the beginning, in the middle (set off with commas), or at the end depending on context.
Can I overuse “in fact”?
Yes. Overuse makes writing repetitive. Use it only when it adds emphasis or contrast.
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Always write “in fact” as two words.
- âś… It emphasizes truth, contrast, or surprise.
- ✅ Avoid the common error of writing “infact.”
- âś… Use sparingly for maximum impact.
- âś… Proper placement and punctuation enhance clarity.
Conclusion: “In Fact” — The Correct and Powerful Choice
Mastering small details like this boosts both your grammar and credibility.
The next time you feel tempted to write “infact,” remember that “in fact” is the only grammatically correct choice.
Clear communication often hinges on such details. By using the phrase correctly, you’ll write and speak with greater precision and professionalism.
