ENGLISH
REFERENCE

well, I never

idiom
Meaning

An exclamation of great surprise.


Examples
SIMPLE

Well, I never! I did not expect to see you here.

CONTEXTUAL

When she told me she had won the lottery, I could only say, well, I never.

COMPLEX

Upon hearing the scandalous news that had been hidden for decades, he simply gasped, well, I never.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a wild goose never laid a tame egg

    Most things are inherited and predetermined.

  2. 02

    all very well

    All right to a certain extent, but problematic beyond that, or for other people.

  3. 03

    as well

    In addition; also.

  4. 04

    do well by doing good

    To achieve social acceptance or financial success as a result of behaving in a benevolent or charitable manner.

  5. 05

    do well for oneself

    To thrive or succeed.

  6. 06

    don't call us, we'll call you

    A stereotypical statement from a hiring organization to a potential candidate, suggesting that the candidate will not be hired.

  7. 07

    fare thee well

    The greatest extent; completion; a state of refinement or perfection.

  8. 08

    first of never

    A nonexistent day; a day that will never come.

Last updated April 17, 2026