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  What it means

  Latin for “in fact.” Used in Polish just as in English — to describe something that exists or is true in practice, even if not officially recognised or legally established.

  Vocabulary

  • de facto — in fact / in practice (Latin)

  Grammar note

  An uninflected Latin phrase used as an adverb. Its counterpart is 'de iure' (de jure) — in law.

  Cultural context

  Widely used in Polish legal, political, and journalistic language. Polish speakers are comfortable with Latin phrases in formal contexts.

  Intermediate

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