Learn English – “Certainly” and “Of course”: what is the difference

adverbsdifferences

Is there any difference in expressing consent and assurance using adverbs "certainly" or "of course"? What would be more appropriate one in everyday conversation?

Best Answer

When it comes to expressing consent and assurance, I'd say the difference certainly isn't very big. :-) When faced with a question like

Can I have some more coffee?

..."Of course" would probably be a more typical reply. But there's nothing wrong with "Certainly" either (although it might sound a little more formal).

Oh, as you mention the context is everyday conversation, you should also consider something like:

Yeah, sure!

:-)