Meaning
Used to indicate that something is obvious or to give permission.
Cultural Background
British speakers often use 'of course' to soften a request or to sound more polite. However, they are also masters of using it sarcastically to point out someone's mistake without being too direct. In the US, 'Of course' is very common in customer service. It is used to make the customer feel that their needs are the priority and are very easy to meet. In professional writing, 'of course' is used to acknowledge a point that the reader likely already knows, which helps build a connection between the writer and reader. The abbreviation 'ofc' is ubiquitous. It is used to save time while still providing a strong affirmative response.
The 'Permission' Trick
If you want to sound extra nice when someone asks for a favor, say 'Of course!' with a rising intonation.
The 'Duh' Danger
Don't use it for things that aren't actually obvious, or you might hurt someone's feelings.
Meaning
Used to indicate that something is obvious or to give permission.
The 'Permission' Trick
If you want to sound extra nice when someone asks for a favor, say 'Of course!' with a rising intonation.
The 'Duh' Danger
Don't use it for things that aren't actually obvious, or you might hurt someone's feelings.
Use 'Of course not'
This is the best way to tell someone they are worrying about nothing. 'Are you mad?' 'Of course not!'
Service Industry
If you work in a hotel or restaurant, 'Of course' is your best friend. It makes you sound professional and ready to help.
Test Yourself
Choose the best response to the question.
Stranger: 'Excuse me, is this seat taken?' You: '________, please sit down.'
Wait! This is a trick. If the seat is NOT taken, you say 'Of course not' (it is not taken). If you want to say 'Yes, you can sit,' you say 'Of course!' In this context, 'Of course not' means 'No, it's not taken.'
Fill in the blank with 'of course' or 'of course not'.
A: 'Are you going to the party tonight?' B: '________! I already bought a new dress for it.'
The speaker bought a dress, so they are definitely going. 'Of course' shows it's a sure thing.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
Waiter: 'Would you like to see the dessert menu?' Customer: '________, I love sweets!'
The customer loves sweets, so the answer is an enthusiastic yes.
Match the tone of 'Of course' to the situation.
Situation: Someone asks if 2+2=4.
2+2=4 is a basic fact, so 'of course' highlights its obviousness.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesStranger: 'Excuse me, is this seat taken?' You: '________, please sit down.'
Wait! This is a trick. If the seat is NOT taken, you say 'Of course not' (it is not taken). If you want to say 'Yes, you can sit,' you say 'Of course!' In this context, 'Of course not' means 'No, it's not taken.'
A: 'Are you going to the party tonight?' B: '________! I already bought a new dress for it.'
The speaker bought a dress, so they are definitely going. 'Of course' shows it's a sure thing.
Waiter: 'Would you like to see the dessert menu?' Customer: '________, I love sweets!'
The customer loves sweets, so the answer is an enthusiastic yes.
Situation: Someone asks if 2+2=4.
2+2=4 is a basic fact, so 'of course' highlights its obviousness.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend.
Yes! 'I will be there, of course.' is very common.
'Certainly' is more formal and often used in business or very polite service.
No, 'ofc' is only for texting and social media. In an email, write 'of course'.
It is a strong way to say 'no' when the answer is obviously no.
Yes, if you say it with a flat tone to a genuine question, it sounds like 'Duh.'
Usually, yes. It means 'Yes, and it's natural that the answer is yes.'
O-F (one F) space C-O-U-R-S-E.
No, just say 'Of course.' Adding 'yes' is redundant and sounds unnatural.
It is always two words.
Related Phrases
certainly
synonymWith no doubt.
naturally
synonymAs expected.
sure thing
informalYes, definitely.
by all means
specialized formYou have full permission.
no doubt
similarI am sure.
