Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| de hecho | /de ˈet͡ʃo/ |
| claro | /ˈklaɾo/ |
| efectivamente | /efeɡˌtibaˈmente/ |
| en efecto | /en eˈfeɡto/ |
| sin duda | /ˌsin ˈduda/ |
These phrases are used to indicate agreement or to affirm a statement. While some forms like de hecho function more like 'in fact' or 'actually' to add information or correct a statement, others are used for logical confirmation or to express absolute certainty.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase sin duda literally means 'without doubt'.
Which one should you use?
The choice of phrase depends on your intent: claro is a common, informal way to say 'of course' or 'sure', whereas de hecho or en efecto are used for logical confirmation. De hecho specifically often functions to add more information or to correct a previous statement. For expressing absolute certainty, use sin duda. If you want to confirm that something has happened exactly as expected or stated, use efectivamente.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For formal situations, you can use en efecto, which is highly formal and often found in literature, journalism or formal speeches. Efectivamente and ciertamente are also formal options. efectivamente adds emphasis to the statement. In informal conversation, claro is very common and cierto can be used to express affirmation similar to 'true' or 'sure thing'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain and some Latin American countries, the phrase sí, claro is commonly used to mean 'indeed' or 'of course'. In Mexico, de veras is a colloquial way to express 'indeed' or 'really'. Efectivamente is understood and used widely throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/de ˈetʃo/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word sin is a direct relative of the English word 'sans', used in terms like 'sans teeth' or 'sans visage'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, saying claro while nodding is a powerful gesture of social alignment that can signal agreement even if the speaker does not fully agree with the premise.
- While claro translates to 'indeed' or 'clear', it is frequently used as a conversational filler to show the speaker is actively listening, similar to saying 'uh-huh' or 'I see' in English.
Examples in context
- En efecto, Dios existe.Indeed God exists.This example shows how to use en efecto to confirm a fact.Tatoeba #5645878 by albrusgher, translation #2093295 by gleki
- Él es inteligente efectivamente.He is clever indeed.This example demonstrates the use of efectivamente to describe someone's qualities.Tatoeba #5645884 by albrusgher, translation #298959 by CM
- De hecho, mantengo la alacena cerrada.Indeed, I keep the cupboard closed.This example illustrates the use of de hecho to introduce a statement.Tatoeba #5683089 by albrusgher, translation #1222110 by Eldad
- ¿Está usted seguro de que desea continuar? Ciertamente, estoy completamente seguro.Are you sure you want to proceed? Indeed, I am absolutely certain.
- Hemos revisado el informe cuidadosamente y efectivamente encontramos algunos errores.We have thoroughly reviewed the report, and indeed, we found some mistakes.
- 10 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are discussing their busy schedules at a cafe.
- MaríaEsta semana ha sido muy larga.This week has been very long.
- AlejandroDe hecho, no he parado ni un momento.Indeed, I haven't stopped for a moment.
- MaríaNecesitamos un descanso urgente.We need an urgent break.
- AlejandroTienes toda la razón.You are absolutely right.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “indeed” translations and entries de hecho, claro, efectivamente, en efecto, sin duda, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries claro, duda, efectivamente, efecto, en, sin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
