of course

of 'course

W1S1 adv

1.) used to show that other people probably already know what you are saying is true, or expect to hear it

▪ Well, she won, of course.

▪ You should of course keep copies of all your correspondence.

▪ Of course there will be some difficult times ahead.

2.) spoken also course informal

used to emphasize that you are saying 'yes' when someone asks your permission to do something

▪ 'Can I ring you back in a minute?' 'Yes, of course.'

▪ 'Is it OK if I have another cup of coffee?' 'Course, help yourself.'

3.) spoken also course informal

used to emphasize that what you are saying to someone is true or correct

▪ 'Do you really believe her?' 'Of course I do!'

▪ 'I hope this idea of yours works.' 'Course it'll work.'

4.) spoken used to show that you accept or agree with what someone has just said

▪ 'Don't get angry. She's only thirteen.' 'Of course.'

▪ 'The correct answer is 83.' 'Oh, yes, of course.'

5.) of course not/course not

spoken used to emphasize that you are saying 'no' to something

▪ 'Have you been reading my e-mail?' 'Of course not!'

▪ 'Do you mind if I bring a friend?' 'No, of course not.'

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POLITENESS

Use of course as a polite and friendly way of agreeing to something : 'Can I borrow your pen?'- 'Of course'. | Of course I'll help you. | 'Do you mind if I smoke?' - 'Of course not'.

Do not use of course as a reply when someone asks you for information, because this can sound rude and unfriendly. If, for example, you asked someone : 'Is this the Swallow Hotel?' and they said |'Of course it is' it would sound as though they thought the answer was obvious and that you were stupid to ask them.

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