virtually unbelievable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "virtually unbelievable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is so extraordinary or implausible that it is hard to believe, even if it is technically possible. Example: "The magician's final trick was virtually unbelievable, leaving the audience in awe and disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Indeed, this is Fontcuberta's charm: he allows us to wonder at the unknown, despite it being exposed as virtually unbelievable.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Almost unbelievable.

Independent

That's almost unbelievable.

Huffington Post

Almost literally unbelievable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Perhaps it's the twee dramatic conceit that ensures he never descends to a quick shag despite the fact that his farcically unbelievable job virtually requires it.

The Guardian - Film

Luckily for Witter, and the five thousand attendant Spike Island veterans, balding Britpoppers and "ecstasy motherfuckers" – as EMF's James Atkin affectionately calls us before Unbelievable – the people behind the Shiiine On Weekender are recreating the 90s virtually in real time.

The Guardian - Music

"Unbelievable, unbelievable.

The Guardian

"Unbelievable, unbelievable," Beltre said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Too unbelievable".

The New York Times - Sports

A. Unbelievable.

The New York Times - Science

"Basically unbelievable".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "virtually unbelievable", ensure the context provides enough evidence or explanation to showcase why the subject is so difficult to believe. This strengthens the impact of the statement and avoids reader skepticism.

Common error

Avoid using "virtually unbelievable" in situations that are only mildly surprising or unusual. Reserve it for truly exceptional or improbable events to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually unbelievable" functions as an intensifier modifying the adjective "unbelievable". It amplifies the sense of incredulity, suggesting something is so improbable as to be almost beyond belief. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to describe situations that are surprising or hard to accept.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "virtually unbelievable" is a phrase used to express strong disbelief or astonishment. As Ludwig highlights, it is grammatically correct and functions as an intensifier, most commonly found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While there aren't many instances of its use, understanding its function and appropriate contexts can enhance clarity and impact in writing. When using "virtually unbelievable", it's best to ensure the context makes it clear why the situation is so difficult to believe, and to avoid overusing it in mildly surprising scenarios. Alternatives like ""almost impossible to believe"" or ""scarcely believable"" can provide similar emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost impossible to believe

Emphasizes the difficulty in believing something, focusing on the possibility.

hardly credible

Focuses on the lack of credibility, suggesting something is difficult to accept as true.

scarcely believable

Highlights the rarity or infrequency of the belief, making it seem unlikely.

near impossible to accept

Emphasizes the unacceptability of something due to its improbability.

verging on the impossible

Suggests the situation or event is close to being impossible.

bordering on fiction

Implies the situation or event is so outlandish it seems like it belongs in a fictional story.

strains credulity

Highlights the fact that the situation tests the limits of what one is willing to believe.

defies belief

Indicates that the situation is so extraordinary it goes against what one would normally believe.

barely imaginable

Focuses on the difficulty in imagining the situation, highlighting its unusual nature.

approaching the inconceivable

Suggests that something is nearly impossible to conceive or comprehend.

FAQs

How can I use "virtually unbelievable" in a sentence?

You can use "virtually unbelievable" to describe events, facts or situations that are extremely difficult to believe. For example: "The magician's final trick was "virtually unbelievable", leaving the audience in awe and disbelief."

What are some alternatives to saying "virtually unbelievable"?

Some alternatives to "virtually unbelievable" include "almost impossible to believe", "hardly credible", or "scarcely believable" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "almost unbelievable" instead of "virtually unbelievable"?

Yes, "almost unbelievable" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "virtually unbelievable". Both phrases convey a similar meaning.

What does "virtually" add to the meaning of "unbelievable"?

The word "virtually" softens the statement, suggesting that while something is extremely hard to believe, it might still be technically possible or true. It conveys a sense of something being "near impossible to accept".