asked in disbelief

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked in disbelief" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is expressing skepticism or surprise about something that has been said or done. Example: "When she heard the news, she asked in disbelief, 'Is that really true?'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"How did you know?" I asked in disbelief.

The New York Times - Health

"You don't want us to text you?" one asked in disbelief.

The New York Times

"I have cancer and you are not going to treat me?"" he asked in disbelief.

The New York Times

I am?" Tyson asked in disbelief when Ayer urged him to desist: "I'm the heavyweight champion of the world".

The New York Times - Books

P.R.: The Egyptologists asked in disbelief, "How did you know?" and I replied, "Easy, I'm the one who killed him".

The New York Times - Magazine

"A hotel, here?" Lenny Cianci, a longtime Carroll Gardens resident, asked in disbelief while waiting to get the alternator on his black Hyundai fixed at a neighborhood garage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"Oh, you know that song?" Aguilera asks in disbelief.

The New Yorker

Why would anyone want to go to Red Hook, the narrator asks in disbelief.

The New York Times

Why, he asks in disbelief, don't more people do it?

The Guardian

"You guys started an IAmA on reddit?" Sabu asks in disbelief.

The Guardian - Tech

"Haven't they heard of neon and lounge acts and showgirls around here?" he asks in disbelief.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Incorporate "asked in disbelief" when you want to emphasize the unexpected or unbelievable nature of the information being presented. This phrase helps highlight the contrast between expectation and reality.

Common error

Avoid using "asked in disbelief" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "inquired incredulously" or "questioned with astonishment" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asked in disbelief" primarily functions as a descriptive element within dialogue, modifying the verb "asked". It highlights the manner in which a question is posed, emphasizing the speaker's skepticism or astonishment. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "asked in disbelief" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to add emotional depth to dialogue by showing a speaker's skepticism or astonishment. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this usage is correct and common in many contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, the phrase conveys incredulity and surprise, enhancing the narrative's impact. While there are more formal alternatives like "inquired incredulously", the phrase's accessibility and emotional resonance make it a valuable tool in various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquired incredulously

Replaces "asked in disbelief" with a single word emphasizing the incredulous manner of questioning.

questioned with astonishment

Focuses on the surprise element of the question, making it a more emotional response.

demanded in astonishment

Implies a stronger sense of surprise and possibly anger, changing the tone to be more assertive.

exclaimed in disbelief

Shifts from a question to an exclamation, expressing pure surprise rather than seeking information.

sputtered in disbelief

Adds a physical reaction to the incredulity, suggesting the speaker is taken aback and struggling to form words.

retorted in disbelief

Indicates a sharp, defensive response fueled by incredulity, implying a disagreement or challenge.

interjected in disbelief

Suggests the speaker interrupted a conversation due to their incredulity, emphasizing the immediate and unplanned nature of the response.

murmured in disbelief

Conveys a quiet, almost internal expression of disbelief, suitable for situations where the speaker is processing shock.

whispered in disbelief

Implies a secret or private expression of shock, reducing the volume and intensity of the response.

stated with incredulity

Replaces "asked" with "stated", changing the intent to one of making a statement of disbelief rather than posing a question.

FAQs

How can I use "asked in disbelief" in a sentence?

You can use "asked in disbelief" to show a character's reaction to surprising or shocking information. For example, "When she heard the price, she "asked in disbelief", 'Is that really the total?'"

What are some alternatives to "asked in disbelief"?

Alternatives include "inquired incredulously", "questioned with astonishment", or "exclaimed in disbelief", depending on the level of surprise or shock you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "asked in disbelief"?

It's appropriate when someone is questioning something they find hard to believe or accept. It adds emotional context to the dialogue and shows the speaker's surprise or skepticism.

What is the difference between "asked in disbelief" and "asked in surprise"?

"Asked in surprise" indicates general astonishment, while "asked in disbelief" suggests a stronger sense of incredulity or skepticism. The former is a more neutral reaction, while the latter implies doubt or difficulty accepting the information as true.