As an adverb or particle: expresses that something is self-evident, clear, or expected. Means 'selbstverständlich' (of course) or 'sicherlich' (certainly).
example
Hilfst du mir beim Umzug? – Natürlich!
Will you help me move? – Of course!
Usage tips
Word formation
The word is derived directly from the noun 'die Natur' (nature) with the ending '-lich' (-ly/-al). So the literal meaning is 'belonging to nature' or 'like nature.'
EXAMPLE
Ich trinke am liebsten natürlichen Apfelsaft ohne Zuckerzusatz.
I prefer drinking natural apple juice with no added sugar.
As a particle of agreement
Very often, 'natürlich' is used as a particle to express 'selbstverständlich' (of course) or 'ja, klar' (yes, sure). It can stand as an answer on its own or introduce a sentence, which then changes the word order.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mir helfen? – Natürlich!
Can you help me? – Of course!
Context clue: meaning
When 'natürlich' appears as an answer or at the beginning of a sentence, it usually means 'selbstverständlich' (of course). If it describes a noun, it means either 'from nature' (e.g. material) or 'unaffected' (e.g. behavior).
EXAMPLE
Natürlich kannst du mitkommen.
Of course you can come along.
Typical combinations
In the meaning 'coming from nature,' 'natürlich' often contrasts with 'künstlich' (artificial). Typical combinations are 'natürliche Aromen' (natural flavors), 'natürliches Licht' (natural light), or 'natürliche Materialien' (natural materials).
EXAMPLE
Das Haus wurde nur mit natürlichen Materialien gebaut.
The house was built using only natural materials.
Compare with
synonym · near_synonym · confusable
natürlich vs klar
clear
'natürlich' and 'klar' can both mean 'yes, of course' as an affirmative answer. In this use, they are often very similar. 'klar' usually sounds a bit more casual and conversational, especially as a short answer. 'natürlich' sounds more neutral and also works well when you want to agree politely or clearly. Learners may confuse the words because both express agreement. But 'klar' can also mean 'clear' or 'easy to understand'; then it is not the same as 'natürlich'.
natürlich
Natürlich helfe ich dir morgen bei der Vorbereitung.
Of course I'll help you with the preparations tomorrow.
klar
Klar, du kannst mein Fahrrad am Wochenende benutzen.