naturally; not surprisingly; understandably; as a matter of course
Used to introduce a statement that follows logically or is expected given the circumstances. Often placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause.
当然のことながら、彼はその申し出を断った。
Naturally, he turned down the offer.
当然のことながら、準備には時間がかかる。
As a matter of course, preparation takes time.
もちろん means 'of course' and is more conversational; 当然のことながら is more formal and often used in writing or speeches.
Standard kanji-kana spelling.
Variant using 事 instead of こと; less common but seen.
Phrase composed of 当然 (natural, obvious) + の (possessive particle) + こと (thing, matter) + ながら (while, although). Literally 'while it is a natural thing', it functions as a set adverbial expression.