claro
/ˈkla.ɾu/
In Portuguese, 'of course' is expressed as claro.
The term is used to indicate enthusiastic agreement. It is related to the words naturalmente and lógico.
Meaning: indicates enthusiastic agreement (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word claro literally means 'clear' (as in bright or transparent), though it is used idiomatically to express 'of course'.
Which one should you use?
While claro expresses enthusiastic agreement or obviousness, the phrase com certeza is more focused on expressing certainty or a firm 'yes' (for sure/with certainty).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, the phrase É claro can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Similarly, Com certeza is also used in Brazil in both formal and informal situations.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
When using claro to introduce a full clause, such as 'Of course it is…', it is typically followed by the conjunction que, forming the expression claro que.
How do you pronounce it?
claro is pronounced as /ˈkla.ɾu/. The first of two syllables is stressed.
Did you know?
- While claro is a standard way to agree, saying only claro with a sharp, rising tone can sometimes sound impatient, as if you are saying 'obviously'.
- In Portuguese, claro can also be used to describe a fair complexion or light-colored hair.
- In some Brazilian regions, people use com certeza so frequently that it can act as a filler word, similar to how English speakers use 'definitely' or 'totally' during casual conversation.
Examples in context
- Claro que é meu.Of course it's mine.This example shows how to use claro to claim ownership.Tatoeba #8204173 by josivangoncalves, translation #8204237 by josivangoncalves
- É claro que a amo!Of course I love her!This example shows how to use claro to express a feeling.Tatoeba #2749079 by carlosalberto, translation #2730079 by AlanF_US
- Claro, por que não?Of course, why not?This example shows how to use claro to agree to a suggestion.Tatoeba #1583852 by alexmarcelo, translation #8203817 by josivangoncalves
- 117 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Rodrigo asks Beatriz if she wants to go to the beach.
- RodrigoVocê quer ir à praia comigo?Do you want to go to the beach with me?
- BeatrizClaro!Of course!
- RodrigoQue bom, eu também adoro o mar.That's good, I love the sea too.
- BeatrizVamos nos divertir muito.We are going to have a lot of fun.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “of course” translations and entries claro, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
