Despite the common and frequent use of certain linguistic expressions; One is not exempt from doubting or making mistakes when these forms must be used. Both in oral and written language, it is important to know what their meanings are; learning to determine the correct use of them. Writing properly in any language should always be part of our interests; because it will guarantee us a more effective communication and will give an account of our linguistic competences.
Each of the existing languages has been transforming over time. This has given rise to new expressive forms; as a consequence of different cultural, economic, political and social processes, which have certainly influenced them.
The study of language allows us to understand the scope of these processes; which condition the way in which individuals establish relationships, and the way in which they conceive both the environment and the reality that surrounds them. In this post, we will focus on the study of the adverbial locution of course: Where does this expression come from? How should it be written? Under what conditions should it be used?
According to the Dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy, the expression of course comes from the Latin suppostus, (variant of supposĭtus) and is made up of the preposition por, and the participle of the verb suppose. It is an adverbial phrase used within the Spanish language, as well as other commonly used expressions, whose writing has also generated confusion despite the fact that its pronunciation does not make any difference. Some of them are please, sometimes, hurry, among others.
What is an adverbial phrase?
Adverbial locutions are those composed of two words or more, (in some cases). Generally it is the combination of a preposition and a noun. These are grammatical and lexical units, because the elements that make them up cease to have an independent meaning to constitute a new one, as a result of the union between the two.
However, its meaning does not always allude to any of these elements. An example of this is evident in the phrase “of course”; used to affirm forcefully that one agrees or agrees with what was expressed by the issuer, and that it is not related to the development of an action at a later time. The adverbial phrases or locutions have been included within the category of adverbs, since they fulfill the same function as these within the sentence.
Instructions to write of course or of course
The Dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy disapproves of the use of the expression of course without the space between the words por and supuesto. This must be written separately: of course, in the same way that it happens with some adverbs, such as “ sometimes”, mentioned in the previous block. We can also highlight the particular case represented by the phrase above all, which according to the Pan-Hispanic Dictionary of Doubts means ‘especially, mainly’, the latter is often confused with the noun overall = garment, which is used as a linguistic unit.
Uses and examples
Of course, is a commonly used locution for the conclusive denial or affirmation in a statement, the equivalent of which would correspond to phrases such as: indeed, without a doubt, actually, of course, among others. Let’s see some examples that can clarify small doubts regarding the function and use that said phrase has within a sentence:
-When we intend to express that a fact is indeed true
- Of course we will go to the park tonight.
-As a form of affirmation or denial
- Of course not, tomorrow you have to study for the exam.
- – Do you want to have dinner with us?
-Of course!
As a participle verb, that is, in the supposed form , it is used in a sentence when it has not been proven whether a fact is true or not. Also to comment on a hypothesis. Examples:
- The alleged murderer will be tried before the court.
- Through scientific research, the first assumption formulated by Johnson can be verified.
Synonyms of the expression of course
Within the Spanish language, the adverbial locution of course has several synonyms and generally the adverbs are the ones that replace these phrases. Below is a list of propositions that can also be used in sentences as a way to replace said expression:
- Really
- However
- Naturally
- Clear
- Indeed
- Undoubtedly
- Undoubtedly
- Of course
- Evidently
- Obviously
- Certainly
Are there phrases in other languages that correspond to this locution?
Yes. This expression can be translated into several languages and its function is the same as it is in Spanish. Some translations of this locution are the following:
- French: bien sûr, cours
- Italian: certo, corso
- Galician: course
- Catalan: per descomptat
- English: of course
- Portuguese: claro, course
- German: natürlich, kurs
What do you need to write of course or of course?
A good writing consists of learning to express ideas in a clear, concise and coherent way.
With dedication and effort, it is possible to make our way, both of writing and of communicating orally with our peers, become a much simpler and more profitable task than we ever imagined. Despite the fact that it is natural that certain difficulties or obstacles arise when we have to issue a message, that is, doubts or confusion that in any field or context make it difficult to finally carry out our speech, oral or written, interest and constant practice of the norms and rules that govern the use of our language.
But let’s focus on written discourse: is its mastery considered really important today? Although we are surrounded by words, it is seen with concern that, in an era in which information is available to us, and increasingly quickly through new technological tools, interest in writing (an effective, and effective) is on the decline. In educational institutions, greater emphasis is no longer placed on getting students to handle the rules and concepts necessary for them to develop intellectual or communication skills within and outside their field of action.
Tips for writing of course or of course
Undoubtedly, knowing in depth the grammar or spelling of our language will allow us to fully understand how the evolution of our language has also conditioned the cultural expressions of our time.
However, it is of great importance to highlight the role that reading plays in the formation of individuals capable of expressing ideas adequately, but it is pertinent that they learn to critically analyze the contents that correspond to any area of knowledge.
- Writing correctly is a complete and wonderful art. Communicating effectively will have multiple advantages for the sender and receiver of the message. Those whose writing presents serious deficiencies should not be discriminated: on the contrary, we can contribute to the improvement of their abilities, considering that the teaching of our language is also an opportunity to strengthen our own reflection on it.
- We are surrounded by writing. The existence of beings and things is due, in large part, to the fact that they were also named. Words can become mirrors that reflect our conscience, values and concerns. Let’s use them wisely: writing is rebuilding a part of the universe, of being.
- In conclusion, language is undoubtedly the means through which we connect with the world, hence the importance of making good use of it, since it has the power to open unimaginable doors for us.