Definition

Adverb 1. Used to indicate that a statement applies to the previous topic and also to a related, broader, or more extreme one. It introduces an additional, often more general, point that reinforces or extends the previous statement. It can mean "in fact," "indeed," or "as far as that is concerned."

Usage

• The phrase "for that matter" is used to add a second, related point to a statement. The second point is usually more inclusive or emphatic.
• It often follows a negative statement but can also follow a positive one.
• It is typically placed at the beginning of the clause it introduces or after the subject.

Examples

• "I don't like spicy food, and *for that matter, I don't like most exotic cuisine."* (The dislike extends from spicy food to a broader category.)
• "He's never been to Spain, or to Europe *for that matter."* (The "never" applies to Spain and is extended to the larger region of Europe.)
• "She didn't apologize, and *for that matter, she didn't even seem sorry."* (The second point reinforces the first by describing a more extreme lack of remorse.)
• "This car isn't very reliable. *For that matter, no car from that manufacturer is."* (The statement about a specific car is extended to all cars from that maker.)

Advanced Usage

• Used for emphasis and generalization: The phrase can soften a correction or introduce a more accurate, sweeping statement.
  • "He's not a good manager. For that matter, he's not a good colleague either."
• Used to connect loosely related ideas: It can link two statements where the second is a relevant afterthought or a broader application of the first idea.
  • "I haven't finished the report. For that matter, I haven't even started the research for it."

Variants and Related Words

• In fact: Often used interchangeably to introduce a reinforcing or clarifying point.
• Indeed: Used to emphasize or confirm a point, sometimes with a similar broadening function.
• As far as that is concerned: A more formal or explicit equivalent.

Synonyms

• In fact
• Indeed
• Actually
• As a matter of fact
• Come to that (informal, chiefly British)

Related Phrases / Idioms

• For that matter does not typically form part of a larger phrasal verb or idiom. Its function is idiomatic in itself, serving as a conjunctive adverb to link and extend ideas.

Adverb

1. as far as that is concerned
   • for that matter I don't care either