0

When people say "Unbelievable" in texting, does it usually mean "Unbelievably good" or "Unbelievably bad", or neutral, when the context is unclear?

Details about the background:

I send something neutral and playful to a friend, and the friend replied "unbelievable" without any additional words or follow-ups.

When the details are missing, how would you usually interpret the mood or attitude behind the word "unbelievable"? Positive or negative?

Improve this question
3
  • 2
    Unfortunately, if the context is unclear it would be difficult to say.
    – Kman3
    Commented Aug 21, 2020 at 18:34
  • 2
    It could also be a simple statement of fact: I can't believe it. [How could that be true?]
    – Jason Bassford
    Commented Aug 21, 2020 at 18:55
  • 1
    I have heard it used mostly in a positive sense. When 'horrible' easily dangles on the tongue tip, 'unbelievable' could be option No.2 :)
    – Ram Pillai
    Commented Aug 22, 2020 at 5:41

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
1

Without context, there is no way to know for sure, but my guess would be the more general sense of disbelief (“I don’t believe it”) regarding whatever they replied to.

For instance, if you said “my friend did [something stupid]”, that response would mean they don’t believe the friend could be so stupid as to do that thing.

Improve this answer
-1

In texts, it would more likely mean "amazing!" (ie, good) if the context is otherwise unclear.

In general in English, it's extremely common to use (confusing!) reversals, double-negatives, sarcasm as the norm, etc.

Improve this answer
1
  • I think most people think this way.
    – High GPA
    Commented Aug 23, 2020 at 23:55

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .