as a matter of fact
Actually; really; in addition to what has been said; in reference to what was said.
Often used as an interjection.
Often used as an interjection.
It's not true that I cannot swim; as a matter of fact, I used to work as a lifeguard in Hawaii.
Do you think this costs too much? As a matter of fact, I think it is rather cheap.
Hans thinks he knows English well but, as a matter of fact, he speaks very poorly.
crux of the matter
The basic issue at hand; the core essence that one must face.
The crux of the matter is that he is incompetent and we will have to fire him.
for that matter
With regard to that; about that.
I don't know, and for that matter, I don't care.
Alice didn't come, and for that matter, she didn't even telephone.
laughing matter
A funny happening; a silly situation. Usually used with no.
John's failing the test is no laughing matter!
We were amused when our neighbor's cat had five kittens, but when our own cat had six kittens it was no laughing matter.
leave open
leave the matter open
To remain temporarily unsettled; subject to further discussion. To delay making a decision on.
Brad said that the question of health insurance would be left open until some future date.
In making up the job announcement, the firm decided to leave the salary open until a qualified candidate was found.
We know that the annual summer camp will be held in August, but let’s leave the exact dates open for now.
matter of course
Something always done; the usual way; habit; rule.
Нечто само собой разумеющееся; в порядке вещей; правило.
A was a matter of course for John to dress carefully when he was meeting his wife.
Bank officers ask questions as a matter of course when someone wants to borrow money.
They did things as a matter of course and never thought about the consequence.
Они все делали как само собой разумеющиеся и никогда не задумывались о последствиях.
matter of fact
Something that is really true; something that can be proved.
Нечто что является истиной; что-то что может быть доказано.
The town records showed that it was a matter of fact that the two boys were brothers.
It is a matter of fact that the American war against England was successful.
It is a matter of fact that the old building should be pulled down as soon as possible.
Реальная действительность в том, что старое здание должно быть снесено как можно скорее.
Often used for emphasis in the phrase as a matter of fact.
I didn't go yesterday, and as a matter of fact, f didn't go all week.
Mary wasn't wearing a blue dress. As a matter of fact, she hasn't got a blue dress.
matter of life and death
Вопрос жизни и смерти; жизненно важный вопрос.
"Do be serious for just five minutes! After all, it is a matter of life and death."
"Да побудь ты серьезным хоть 5 минут! В конце концов, это жизненно важный вопрос!"