Cool MateOf course vs Yes it can
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Of course
Top 1,000 (very common)
Yes it can
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Of course
| Of course | Yes it can | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //əv kɔːs//🇺🇸 //əv kɔrs// | 🇬🇧 //jɛs ɪt kæn//🇺🇸 //jɛs ɪt kæn// |
| Meaning | Definitely, it's obvious. | A phrase to agree or confirm something. |
| Example | Are you joining us for dinner tonight? Of course! | If we work together, yes it can! |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| Collocations | of course not, of course yes, of course you can, of course it is | Yes it can happen, Yes it can be done, Yes it can work |
| Common mistakes | Using it in formal writing where a different expression is needed., Confusing it with other affirmations like 'certainly' or 'definitely'. | Using with a negative question incorrectly, e.g. 'Yes it can not'., Confused with 'Yes, it can.' Incomplete sentences are less formal., Overusing in formal writing where clear agreement is needed. |
| Usage notes | Used in informal and formal situations to affirm something obvious. Avoid in highly formal writing. | Used to express agreement or affirmation in a conversation. Appropriate in most contexts but could be too informal in very formal settings. |
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Frequently asked questions: Of course vs Yes it can
What's the difference between Of course and Yes it can?
Of course: Definitely, it's obvious. Yes it can: A phrase to agree or confirm something.
Which is more common: Of course and Yes it can?
Of course is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Of course: Are you joining us for dinner tonight? Of course! Yes it can: If we work together, yes it can!
Can I use Of course and Yes it can interchangeably?
Not always. Of course and Yes it can 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.