Of Course
A slightly more formal equivalent to 'of course' or 'certainly.' Use it when you want to sound polite and sure.
A short, casual, and very common way to say 'sure' or 'right.' It's just the first word of 'Claro que sí'.
A friendly and enthusiastic phrase meaning 'Of course!' or 'Why not!'. It shows you're happy to agree or help.
A strong way to say 'certainly' or 'without a doubt.' It adds a level of definite confirmation.
- Can you help me, please? - Of course!
- Do you want to go to the movies with us? - Sure!
- Is the exam difficult? - Of course, you need to study a lot.
- Can I use your cell phone? - Of course! Here you go.
'Claro que sí' and 'Por supuesto' are universally understood and used everywhere. The main difference between regions is which alternative is more popular in casual conversation.
'¡Cómo no!' is extremely common and carries a very positive, service-oriented tone. You will hear it constantly from waiters, shopkeepers, and in everyday interactions.
While all the standard phrases are used, 'obvio' (meaning 'obviously') is incredibly common in casual speech as a substitute for 'of course'.
'Por supuesto' and 'desde luego' are very frequently used, sometimes more so than 'Claro que sí' in formal or emphatic contexts. 'Claro' is also extremely common for 'sure'.
'Claro' is ubiquitous in all types of conversation. It's a very common and friendly affirmative response.
Saying 'de curso'. — This is a literal word-for-word translation ('de' = of, 'curso' = course) that makes no sense in Spanish. The correct phrases are idiomatic, like 'Claro que sí' or 'Por supuesto'.
Confusing 'claro' (of course) with 'caro' (expensive). — These words sound similar but have very different meanings. Pronouncing the 'l' in 'claro' clearly is important. Saying '¡Caro!' when someone offers you something means 'Expensive!', not 'Sure!'.
Overusing 'naturalmente'. — While 'naturalmente' can mean 'naturally' or 'of course,' it sounds much more formal and less common in daily conversation than 'claro' or 'por supuesto'. Stick to the more common phrases for a natural sound.