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It can't be

🇬🇧 UK //ɪt kɑːnt biː// 🇺🇸 US //ɪt kænt bi//

Meaning of It can't be

A phrase used to indicate that something is impossible or unlikely.

In simple words: It is not possible.

It can't be in a sentence

• When he said he could lift that car, I thought, 'It can't be!'
• She claimed she had never seen snow, and I replied, 'It can't be true!'
• After all the evidence was presented, the jury said, 'It can't be what you're suggesting.'
• He arrived late again, and I couldn't help but say, 'It can't be that you missed the bus again.'
• Her sudden change in behavior made me think, 'It can't be because of just one comment.'

How to use It can't be

Used to express disbelief or rejection of a statement. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in overly formal settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a brick wall, as in 'it can't be breached'.

Related words

Collocations with It can't be

• it can't be true
• it can't be real
• it can't be happening
• it can't be serious

Synonyms for It can't be

• impossible
• unfeasible
• unlikely
• not possible

Common mistakes with It can't be

• Omitting 'it' and saying just 'can't be'.
• Using 'can't' in very formal speech.
• Confusing with 'it shouldn’t be' which implies advice rather than disbelief.

Frequently asked questions about It can't be

What does It can't be mean?

It is not possible.

What is the definition of It can't be?

A phrase used to indicate that something is impossible or unlikely.

How do you use It can't be in a sentence?

When he said he could lift that car, I thought, 'It can't be!'

Can you give another example of It can't be?

She claimed she had never seen snow, and I replied, 'It can't be true!'

What are synonyms for It can't be?

Common alternatives include impossible, unfeasible, unlikely, not possible.

What words go with It can't be?

It commonly pairs with it can't be true, it can't be real, it can't be happening, it can't be serious.

What are common mistakes when using It can't be?

Omitting 'it' and saying just 'can't be'. Using 'can't' in very formal speech. Confusing with 'it shouldn’t be' which implies advice rather than disbelief.

How do you pronounce It can't be?

US: //ɪt kænt bi//, UK: //ɪt kɑːnt biː//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use It can't be?

Used to express disbelief or rejection of a statement. Appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in overly formal settings.