当然

dāng rán

only natural

HSK 3

Character Breakdown

Usage of 当然

'当然' is a very common adverb in Mandarin used to express that something is natural, obvious, or expected. It often translates as 'of course' or 'naturally' in English. It is used to affirm a statement strongly, indicating that the speaker considers the fact self-evident.

Position in Sentence

'当然' usually appears before the verb or predicate it modifies, emphasizing the certainty or naturalness of the action or state.

Common Collocations

These collocations highlight permission, knowledge, and necessity respectively.

Nuance and Register

Using '当然' conveys confidence and sometimes a polite reassurance. It is neutral in tone and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse '当然' with '可能' (possible) or '也许' (maybe). '当然' expresses certainty, while the others express possibility or uncertainty.

Example Sentences

你当然可以参加我们的聚会。

Nǐ dāngrán kěyǐ cānjiā wǒmen de jùhuì.

Of course you can join our party.

他当然知道这个消息,因为他是负责人。

Tā dāngrán zhīdào zhège xiāoxi, yīnwèi tā shì fùzérén.

He naturally knows this news because he is the person in charge.

学习中文当然需要多练习口语。

Xuéxí Zhōngwén dāngrán xūyào duō liànxí kǒuyǔ.

Learning Chinese naturally requires a lot of spoken practice.

你当然可以提出不同的意见。

Nǐ dāngrán kěyǐ tíchū bùtóng de yìjiàn.

Of course you can express a different opinion.

他当然不会忘记我们的约定。

Tā dāngrán bù huì wàngjì wǒmen de yuēdìng.

He certainly will not forget our appointment.