unbelievably
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
used to emphasize that something is very extreme or much more than expected.
used as an intensifier to emphasize an extreme degree, often synonymous with 'incredibly' or 'extremely'.
Simple“The weather was unbelievably hot for this time of year.”
In context“The logistics of the operation were unbelievably complex, requiring coordination across three different time zones and four government agencies.”
UsageUsually placed before an adjective or another adverb to add emphasis.
Teacher's tipIn casual conversation, this is often used as a hyperbolic synonym for 'very'.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
in a way that is impossible or very difficult to believe is true.
in a manner that exceeds the limits of belief or credibility.
Simple“He spoke unbelievably about his adventures in the jungle.”
In context“The witness recounted the events so unbelievably that the jury began to doubt the core of his testimony.”
UsageOften modifies a verb related to speaking, acting, or occurring.
Teacher's tipThis sense is less common than the intensifying sense; it focuses on the lack of credibility rather than just high intensity.
SynonymsimplausiblyincrediblyAntonymsbelievablyplausibly - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
used to say that something is very surprising or amazing because it was not expected.
contrary to expectations; used to introduce a statement that is remarkably surprising.
Simple“Unbelievably, the cat found its way home after being lost for a month.”
In context“Unbelievably, the small startup managed to outperform its multi-billion dollar competitors within the first fiscal year.”
UsageOften used as a sentence adverb at the beginning of a clause to set the tone.
Teacher's tipWhen used at the start of a sentence, it functions similarly to 'surprisingly' but with much stronger emotional weight.
SynonymsAntonyms
“It’s my wife, my ex-wife – I love her unbelievably, but we lost the passion.”