# facto

/ˈfæktoʊ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/facto
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

existing in reality even if it is not official or legal. You use this to describe a situation that is true in practice, regardless of what the rules say.

For teachers: existing in fact or in practice, whether or not it is legally or formally recognised. Often used to describe a situation that has developed naturally rather than by design.

## Examples

- He is the de facto leader of the group.
- Although she doesn't have the title of manager, she is the de facto head of the department because everyone follows her lead.
- The border has been closed for decades, making the temporary ceasefire line a de facto international boundary that neither side officially acknowledges but both sides strictly respect.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as part of the Latin loan-phrase 'de facto'. It usually precedes the noun it modifies but can also function as an adverb following a verb.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.