matter of course

¹

noun

1. something that follows in logical, natural, or customary sequence or that is treated as such:

   After such reprisals, war followed as a matter of course.

matter-of-course

²

[ mat-er-uhv-kawrs, -kohrs ]

adjective

1. occurring or proceeding in or as if in the logical, natural, or customary course of things; expected or inevitable.
2. accepting things as occurring in their natural course, or characterized by an acceptance of things as such:

   to be matter-of-course in confronting the difficulties of existence.

matter of course

noun

1. an event or result that is natural or inevitable

adjective

1. usually postpositive occurring as a matter of course
2. accepting things as inevitable or natural

   a matter-of-course attitude

Word History and Origins

Origin of matter of course¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Origin of matter of course²

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

The foolishness would not be so noticeable if the Brokenness were not so hideous and genuine and actual and matter-of-course.

From Project Gutenberg

Even speak his decision for him, as though it were a matter-of-course.

From Project Gutenberg

At evening he went home with Mr. Hobart in the most matter-of-course way.

From Project Gutenberg

Not merely the politicians but the bulk of the people accepted this in a matter-of-course way as the only proper attitude.

From Project Gutenberg

The people accepted and practiced in a matter-of-course way as quite proper things which they would not now tolerate.

From Project Gutenberg