incredibly - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
incredibly Word Meanings
- difficult or impossible to believe
- extraordinary or remarkable
- astonishingly good
incredibly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
- The magic show was incredible.
- She has an incredible smile.
- This food tastes incredible.
- He is an incredible runner.
- The view from the mountain is incredible.
incredibly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈkrɛd.ɪ.bəl/
US
/ɪnˈkrɛd.ə.bəl/
incredibly Word Etymology
in- = not, credere = to believe; Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person witnessing a spectacle so amazing, they can't believe their eyes.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands on the door handle, I move my wrist and shift my stance. The door gives a tiny creak as I push, and the room tilts toward the street with a new light. A rush hits me, something incredible, as if the everyday scene suddenly opened to the extraordinary. I keep my grip steady, decide what comes next, and let the moment carry me forward.
Real Context
Incredible is a vivid adjective used to describe something that is hard to believe, or something that is extraordinary and remarkable. It can apply to a stunning achievement, a dazzling performance, or an object that seems almost magical. The sense ranges from mild astonishment to pure incredulity. In everyday speech, incredible can also be used hyperbolically to intensify positive impressions, like 'an incredible meal' or 'an incredible deal'. Be mindful of tone: in formal writing, choose 'astonishing' or 'remarkable' when you need a neutral register, and reserve incredible for enthusiastic or expressive contexts. The etymology traces back to in- + credere, 'to believe', emphasizing the belief test of what you see.
Usage Reminders
- Keep it positive and strong
- Not for ordinary things
- Match tone to formality
- Pair with nouns like meal, deal, achievement
- Avoid overuse in academic writing
- Use alternatives for neutral descriptions
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing incredible with very or extremely
- Using it for everyday, ordinary things
- Thinking it always has a positive tone in formal writing
- Believing it can be used with negative statements
- Assuming it replaces 'unbelievable' in all contexts
Thinking Differences
In English, incredible highlights strong positive impressions and can feel hyperbolic; learners should reserve it for exciting, vivid contexts rather than routine facts.
Learning Tips
- Note the two core senses: hard to believe and extraordinary.
- Use for strong positive impressions, not everyday things.
- Match tone to formality in writing.
- Pair with nouns like meal, deal, achievement.
- Avoid overusing in academic writing; reserve for vivid contexts.
- Practice with real-world examples to feel the nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'incredibly'?
A.Interesting
B.Extremely
C.Confusing
D.Moderate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'incredibly' correctly?
A.He was really sad about the news.
B.They had a big family dinner.
C.The weather is nice today.
D.She is incredibly talented at playing the piano.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'incredibly':
A.Normally
B.Ordinarily
C.Partially
D.Astonishingly
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the opposite of 'incredibly':
A.Possibly
B.Strangely
C.Quickly
D.Slightly
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you use 'incredibly'?
A.Describing an ordinary day
B.Discussing a regular meal
C.Talking about a boring book
D.Expressing amazement at a performance
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