Course can mean the natural way events go. The fixed expression presents something as following that natural course.
Strong yes or permission
social
informal
Said to answer yes strongly or to give permission readily.
Examples
- "Can I sit here?" "Of course."
- "Will you help me?" "Of course!"
- You can of course borrow my pen.
- "May I come in?" "Of course you can."
- "Did you remember my name?" "Of course."
Similar words
certainly
sure
absolutely
Obvious or unsurprising fact
conversation
neutral
Used to show that something is already known, expected, or easy to understand.
Examples
- The shop was closed, of course, because it was Sunday.
- Of course, water freezes when it gets cold enough.
- He forgot his coat and, of course, felt cold.
- She knew, of course, that the test was today.
- Of course the baby cried when she was hungry.
Similar words
naturally
obviously
as expected