obviously / naturally
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obviously
Expresses that something is obvious, logical, or self-evident and does not require further explanation.
Selbstredend müssen alle Sicherheitsvorschriften genau eingehalten werden.
Obviously, all safety regulations must be followed exactly.
The word is a compound of 'selbst' (self) and 'redend' (present participle of 'reden', to speak). It literally means 'speaking for itself' and makes clear why something needs no further explanation.
Die Notwendigkeit für sauberes Wasser ist selbstredend.
The need for clean water is self-evident.
'Selbstredend' often stands at the beginning of the sentence in position 1. In this case, the verb follows directly afterward in position 2. However, it can also stand after the finite verb inside the sentence.
Selbstredend hat er für den entstandenen Schaden bezahlt.
Naturally, he paid for the damage caused.
This word belongs to elevated written language and sounds formal. It is rarely used in everyday spoken language.
Die Ergebnisse der Studie sind, selbstredend, vertraulich zu behandeln.
The results of the study are, of course, to be treated confidentially.
natural / of course
'natürlich' and 'selbstredend' can both express that something is clear or self-evident. 'natürlich' is very common in everyday language and fits almost any conversation. 'selbstredend' means something similar, but sounds more elevated and somewhat more formal. It is more likely to be used in written texts, explanations, or polite statements. Learners may confuse the words because both mean 'clear' or 'self-evident'. In normal conversations, 'natürlich' usually sounds more natural.
Die Teilnahme ist selbstredend kostenlos.
Participation is, of course, free of charge.
Natürlich helfe ich dir morgen beim Umzug.
Of course I'll help you move tomorrow.