of course
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/əv ˈkɔrs/
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An emphatic yes, or a sign that something is obvious or expected.
Examples
Of course the baby cried when she was hungry.
She knew, of course, that the test was today.
He forgot his coat and, of course, felt cold.
Of course, water freezes when it gets cold enough.
You can of course borrow my pen.
Similar words
certainly
naturally
sure
as expected
obviously
absolutely
Meanings
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."
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
Etymology
Course can mean the natural way events go. The fixed expression presents something as following that natural course.
FAQ
What does of course mean as an answer?
It is a strong yes or a ready grant of permission.
Can of course mean something is obvious?
Yes. It may mark a fact as already known or expected.
Its yes response is informal and friendly. The obviousness use also appears in ordinary writing.
Can of course sound impatient?
Yes, depending on tone. It can imply that the answer should have been obvious.
What does of course not mean?
It is an emphatic no, as in No, of course not.
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