While they may sound similar, en fait and au fait have distinct meanings and uses in French. Here’s a quick breakdown:
En fait
En fait means actually, in fact, or as a matter of fact. It is used to introduce a clarification, correction, or additional information that contrasts with what was previously said, similar to the English expressions in fact or actually.
For example: Je pensais que tu aimais le café. En fait, tu préfères le thé. (I thought you liked coffee. In fact, you prefer tea).
Au fait
Au fait means by the way or speaking of which and can also mean up to date in certain contexts. It is used to introduce a new topic or question, often in informal conversations, similar to the English expressions by the way or speaking of which.
For example: Au fait, tu as des nouvelles de Marie ? (By the way, do you have any news from Marie?).
Key tip for differentiation
If you’re introducing a correction or clarification, use en fait.
If you’re shifting the conversation or introducing a new topic, use au fait.
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