What does “Facts are stubborn things.” mean?
"Facts are stubborn things" means that facts and reality cannot be changed or denied, even if someone disagrees with them or doesn't like them.
What context can I use the in?
Example
You can try to argue all you want, but facts are stubborn things. They won't change just because you don't like them.
Example
No matter how much you deny it, facts are stubborn things. You can't change the truth.
Example
It's pointless to argue with someone who refuses to accept that facts are stubborn things. The truth will always prevail
Is “Facts are stubborn things.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Facts are stubborn things.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Facts are stubborn things.” effectively in context?
You can use "Facts are stubborn things" to assert the unchangeable nature of reality and to emphasize that the truth cannot be denied. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:
- 1Argument
During a heated debate, you can say, 'I understand your perspective, but facts are stubborn things. The evidence clearly supports my argument.'
- 2Denial
If someone is refusing to accept the truth, you can say, 'You can deny it all you want, but facts are stubborn things. The reality won't change just because you don't like it.'
- 3Debunking Myths
When debunking a false claim or myth, you can say, 'Let me present the evidence. Facts are stubborn things. They prove that this claim is false.'
Similar phrases to “Facts are stubborn things.”:
Reality bites
The harsh or unpleasant truth cannot be avoided
Example
She had to face the consequences of her actions; reality bites.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Facts are stubborn things.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Facts are stubborn things" can be traced back to a speech by John Adams, the second President of the United States. In 1770, during the trial of British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre, Adams used the phrase to emphasize that the facts of the case were undeniable and could not be altered or ignored.
Is “Facts are stubborn things.” common in everyday conversation?
While not as common as some other proverbs or idioms, "Facts are stubborn things" is still recognizable and occasionally used in everyday conversation. It is more commonly used in formal or intellectual discussions, such as debates, presentations, or academic settings.
What tone does “Facts are stubborn things.” have?
"Facts are stubborn things" conveys a tone of certainty and authority. It is often used to assert the undeniable nature of reality and to challenge those who deny or ignore facts.
Can “Facts are stubborn things.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Facts are stubborn things" is more commonly used in formal settings, such as debates, presentations, or academic discussions. However, it can also be used in informal conversations to emphasize the unchangeable nature of reality.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'You can try to argue all you want, but "facts are stubborn things". They won't change just because you don't like them.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"Facts are stubborn things"!' to imply the unchangeable nature of reality.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- the truth cannot be denied
- reality is unyielding
- evidence speaks for itself
- the facts speak for themselves
- truth prevails
Antonyms
- opinions can change
- perception is subjective
- alternative facts exist
- truth is relative
- denial is an option
