informal 2K

Can you believe it

🇬🇧 UK //kæn jʊ bɪˈliːv ɪt// 🇺🇸 US //kæn jʊ bɪˈliv ɪt//

Meaning of Can you believe it

A phrase expressing disbelief or surprise at something that has happened.

In simple words: A phrase used to express disbelief or surprise.

Can you believe it in a sentence

• Can you believe it? They found a dinosaur fossil in our town!
• After all that hard work, can you believe it? We actually won the competition!
• I just heard they cancelled our favorite show. Can you believe it?
• She got hired for her dream job. Can you believe it?
• He said he met a celebrity at the store. Can you believe it?

How to use Can you believe it

Used in casual conversations when something surprising is mentioned. Not typically used in formal writing. Can show excitement or incredulity.

Grammar pattern

standalone greeting

Memory hint

Think of a shocked friend saying 'Can you believe it?' after hearing a wild story.

Related words

Collocations with Can you believe it

• Can you believe it happened?
• Can you believe it’s true?
• Can you believe it’s already winter?

Synonyms for Can you believe it

• Really?
• No way!
• Is that true?
• Can you imagine?
• You've got to be kidding!

Common mistakes with Can you believe it

• Using it in a formal context where more polite expressions are required.
• Misplacing the intonation, which can change the meaning or sound less genuine.
• Confusing it with similar phrases like 'Can you imagine it' which has a different sentiment.

Frequently asked questions about Can you believe it

What does Can you believe it mean?

A phrase used to express disbelief or surprise.

What is the definition of Can you believe it?

A phrase expressing disbelief or surprise at something that has happened.

How do you use Can you believe it in a sentence?

Can you believe it? They found a dinosaur fossil in our town!

Can you give another example of Can you believe it?

After all that hard work, can you believe it? We actually won the competition!

What are synonyms for Can you believe it?

Common alternatives include Really?, No way!, Is that true?, Can you imagine?, You've got to be kidding!.

What words go with Can you believe it?

It commonly pairs with Can you believe it happened?, Can you believe it’s true?, Can you believe it’s already winter?.

What are common mistakes when using Can you believe it?

Using it in a formal context where more polite expressions are required. Misplacing the intonation, which can change the meaning or sound less genuine. Confusing it with similar phrases like 'Can you imagine it' which has a different sentiment.

How do you pronounce Can you believe it?

US: //kæn jʊ bɪˈliv ɪt//, UK: //kæn jʊ bɪˈliːv ɪt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Can you believe it formal or informal?

"Can you believe it" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Can you believe it?

Used in casual conversations when something surprising is mentioned. Not typically used in formal writing. Can show excitement or incredulity.