French Expression: En Effet

The French expression en effet is used to confirm what was just said and may also introduce an explanation or other additional information. The expression is underutilized by English speakers, who often say en fait when what they really mean is en effet. Both expressions can be translated by "in fact," but the difference is that en effet confirms, whereas en fait contradicts. 

Overview

Expression: En effet

Pronunciation: [a(n) nay feh]

Meaning: indeed, because, actually, in fact, that's right

Synonym: When used to agree with what was just said, en effet is synonymous with voilà. 

Literal translation: in effect

Register: normal

Examples

• Il veut venir avec nous ?  -En effet.
  He wants to come with us? -That's right. 
• Je ne serai pas là mardi, en effet, je dois amener ma mère chez le médecin.
  I won't be there on Tuesday, because I have to take my mother to the doctor.
• Elle est en effet plus grande.
  Indeed / You're right / That's true, she is taller.
• As-tu déjà vu ce film ? -En effet, je l'ai vu la semaine dernière.
  Have you already seen this movie? -Yes, in fact, I saw it last week.