I can't believe | I couldn't believe

This page is about the conversational phrase I can't believe | I couldn't believe

Meaning

You can say this when describing something that's true, but so amazing or disturbing that you can't believe it's true.

For example

  • "Check it out! It's one of those new TV's."
    "Wow. I can't believe how clear the picture is!"

  • "I couldn't believe how badly they were treated."
    "The garment workers?"
    "Yes! They worked for twelve hours straight in a dirty factory, and they only got two dollars!"

Quick Quiz

Kim said, "I couldn't believe now expensive it was!" She thought

a. it was very expensive

b. the price was wrong

c. it wasn't expensive
a) it was very expensive b) the price was wrong c) it wasn't expensive

Contributor: Matt Errey