In 15 Seconds
- The standard way to say 'Of course' in Portuguese.
- Used to confirm something obvious or agree with a statement.
- Works in both casual chats and professional emails.
Meaning
This is the go-to way to say 'of course' or 'it's clear that' when you want to agree or state something obvious. It’s like nodding your head while speaking to show you're totally on the same page.
Key Examples
3 of 6Accepting a dinner invitation
É claro que eu vou ao seu jantar!
Of course I'm going to your dinner!
Confirming a fact in a meeting
É claro que precisamos reduzir os custos.
It is clear that we need to reduce costs.
Texting a friend about a party
É claro que ela vai estar lá.
Of course she's going to be there.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, 'É claro que' is often used to avoid sounding too direct or blunt. It adds a layer of 'simpatia' to your agreement. Portuguese speakers might use 'Com certeza' slightly more often in formal service contexts (restaurants, hotels), but 'É claro que' is perfectly understood and used. In Luanda, the phrase is used similarly to Portugal, often with a very clear and rhythmic pronunciation of the 'que'. In a professional setting, starting a sentence with 'É claro que' can be a power move to establish a fact as indisputable.
Drop the 'É' to sound casual
In informal Brazilian speech, just say 'Claro que...' to sound more relaxed.
Watch your tone
If you say it too slowly, it can sound sarcastic. Keep it snappy for sincere agreement.
In 15 Seconds
- The standard way to say 'Of course' in Portuguese.
- Used to confirm something obvious or agree with a statement.
- Works in both casual chats and professional emails.
What It Means
É claro que is your best friend for expressing certainty. It functions exactly like the English phrase "Of course." It signals that the information following it is obvious or expected. You are essentially saying that the truth is transparent and easy to see.
How To Use It
You place it at the start of a sentence to set the tone. It is usually followed by a subject and a verb. For example, if someone asks if you like brigadeiro, you say É claro que eu gosto! It adds a layer of confidence to your statement. You can also use it as a standalone response: É claro!
When To Use It
Use it when you want to be supportive or affirmative. It works great when a friend asks for a favor. It’s perfect for confirming plans you’ve already made. In a business meeting, it shows you are aligned with a logical point. It’s also the ultimate way to answer a question with an obvious 'yes.'
When NOT To Use It
Avoid it if you want to sound hesitant or unsure. If you use it with a sarcastic tone, it can sound condescending. Don't use it if the answer isn't actually obvious to everyone. Using it too much might make you sound a bit like a 'know-it-all.' Be careful not to use it when someone is sharing a vulnerable secret.
Cultural Background
Portuguese speakers value warmth and active agreement in conversation. Using É claro que helps build rapport by showing you share the same logic. It reflects the communicative nature of Brazilian and Portuguese cultures. It’s a verbal bridge that connects two people in agreement. It has been a staple of the language for centuries without losing its punch.
Common Variations
You will often hear Claro que sim for a stronger 'yes.' In more formal writing, you might see Certamente or Obviamente. In very casual slang, some might just say Com certeza. If you want to be extra emphatic, try É claro e evidente que. However, the standard É claro que remains the king of versatility.
Usage Notes
This expression is highly versatile and sits right in the middle of the formality spectrum. It is safe to use with your boss, your grandmother, or a waiter.
Drop the 'É' to sound casual
In informal Brazilian speech, just say 'Claro que...' to sound more relaxed.
Watch your tone
If you say it too slowly, it can sound sarcastic. Keep it snappy for sincere agreement.
Examples
6É claro que eu vou ao seu jantar!
Of course I'm going to your dinner!
Shows enthusiasm and confirms attendance.
É claro que precisamos reduzir os custos.
It is clear that we need to reduce costs.
Used to state a logical business conclusion.
É claro que ela vai estar lá.
Of course she's going to be there.
Confirming a mutual friend's presence.
É claro que eu quero mais pizza, que pergunta!
Of course I want more pizza, what a question!
Playfully pointing out that the answer is obvious.
É claro que eu te amo.
Of course I love you.
Provides emotional validation and certainty.
É claro que eu estou aprendendo!
Of course I am learning!
A proud affirmation of your language journey.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank to say 'Of course I like chocolate.'
______ ______ que eu gosto de chocolate.
We use the verb 'ser' (é) for permanent or obvious facts in this expression.
Which is the most natural response to: 'Você vem à festa?'
Response:
'É claro que sim!' is the perfect standalone emphatic 'yes'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Você acha que vai chover? B: ______, olha aquelas nuvens pretas!
The context of 'black clouds' makes rain obvious.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercises______ ______ que eu gosto de chocolate.
We use the verb 'ser' (é) for permanent or obvious facts in this expression.
Response:
'É claro que sim!' is the perfect standalone emphatic 'yes'.
A: Você acha que vai chover? B: ______, olha aquelas nuvens pretas!
The context of 'black clouds' makes rain obvious.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes! 'Claro!' is a perfect one-word answer for 'Of course!'.
Use 'É claro que' for the idiom. 'Está claro' is for physical light or a situation that just became clear.
Yes! 'É claro que não' means 'Of course not'.
Related Phrases
Com certeza
synonymWith certainty / Of course
Obviamente
synonymObviously
Sem dúvida
similarWithout a doubt
Pois claro
specialized formWell, of course
