Cool MateOf course I read it vs Undoubtedly
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Of course I read it
Top 5,000 (fairly common)
Undoubtedly
FormalTop 5,000 (fairly common)C1adverb
Most formal: Undoubtedly
| Of course I read it | Undoubtedly | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //əv kɔːs aɪ rɛd ɪt//🇺🇸 //əv kɔrs aɪ rɛd ɪt// | 🇬🇧 //ʌnˈdaʊtɪdli//🇺🇸 //ʌnˈdaʊtədli// |
| Meaning | It's natural for me to have read it. | Definitely; without a doubt. |
| Example | Of course I read it; it was really interesting! | She is undoubtedly the best candidate for the position. |
| Register | Neutral | Formal |
| How common | Top 5,000 (fairly common) | Top 5,000 (fairly common) |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | |
| Collocations | Of course I agree, Of course I know, Of course you can | undoubtedly true, undoubtedly clear, undoubtedly helpful |
| Antonyms | - | doubtfully, questionably, uncertainly |
| Common mistakes | Using 'of course' in contexts where it's not obvious, making it sound condescending., Misplacing the phrase in sentences, losing its intended emphasis., Translating directly from another language, which may sound awkward. | Confused with 'undoubtably', which is incorrect., Omitting it when certainty is implied., Using it in informal contexts where 'definitely' is more suitable. |
| Usage notes | Use this phrase to express a natural understanding or expectation. It's typically informal but can be slightly formal in certain contexts. | Used to emphasize certainty or strong belief; typically in formal writing or speeches, not common in casual conversation. |
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Frequently asked questions: Of course I read it vs Undoubtedly
What's the difference between Of course I read it and Undoubtedly?
Of course I read it: It's natural for me to have read it. Undoubtedly: Definitely; without a doubt.
Which is more formal: Of course I read it and Undoubtedly?
Undoubtedly is the most formal of these.
Can you show an example of each?
Of course I read it: Of course I read it; it was really interesting! Undoubtedly: She is undoubtedly the best candidate for the position.
Can I use Of course I read it and Undoubtedly interchangeably?
Not always. Of course I read it and Undoubtedly are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.