A common way to say “of course” in Spanish is por supuesto. In casual conversation, claro is also very natural and often means “sure” or “of course.” In Spain, you may also hear desde luego. The best choice depends on tone and context.
Por supuesto = of course (clear and widely used). Claro = sure/of course (casual). Desde luego = certainly/of course.
How to Say “Of Course” in Spanish
The best translation depends on whether you are agreeing casually, answering politely, or emphasizing that something is certain. Por supuesto is a broadly useful choice; claro is especially conversational. For an opening before the reply, compare hello in Spanish.
Different Ways to Say Of Course
Por Supuesto: A Clear “Of Course”
Por supuesto is understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world. It works as an affirmative response and can also introduce something that is obvious or expected. Pronounce it por soo-PWES-toh.
Meaning: Can you help me? Of course.
Claro: A Casual “Sure”
Claro literally means “clear,” but as a response it often means “sure,” “of course,” or “certainly.” It is brief and conversational. A longer reply, claro que sí, means “of course” or “certainly.”
Meaning: Are you coming with us? Sure.
Desde Luego: Certainly
Desde luego is another expression for “of course” or “certainly.” It is especially common in Spain, though it is understood elsewhere. Use it when you want to sound assured or emphatic.
| Spanish | Typical tone | English |
|---|---|---|
| por supuesto | neutral | of course |
| claro | casual | sure, of course |
| desde luego | certain or emphatic | certainly, of course |
Choosing the Right Tone
Use claro with friends and in relaxed conversation. Por supuesto works in both everyday and more formal replies. Desde luego can sound firmer or more emphatic. These are affirmative expressions; use claro que no to agree with a negative statement such as “of course not.”
Quick Comparison
| Expression | Typical tone | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| por supuesto | neutral, assured | of course |
| claro | casual | sure, of course |
| desde luego | emphatic | certainly |
Pronunciation Tips
In por supuesto, the stress falls on pues; keep the four syllables flowing together. Claro has two clear syllables, and desde luego is commonly said with the stress on lue.
Useful Examples
You can also say por supuesto que sí (“of course, yes”) or claro que no (“of course not”). Match the expression to how strong or casual you want your reply to sound.
Frequently Asked Questions About Of Course in Spanish
Tap a question below to see the answer.
Is claro the same as por supuesto?
Both can mean “of course,” but claro is usually shorter and more casual, while por supuesto is a neutral full expression.
What is a polite way to say of course?
Por supuesto is a safe, widely understood option. Tone and context still matter.
Summary: Of Course in Spanish
Use por supuesto for a broadly useful “of course,” claro for a casual “sure,” and desde luego for “certainly.”
