Essential English Speaking: Common Phrases to Express Doubt

Learning English is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; more importantly, it’s about being able to use the language naturally in real-life situations. However, textbook sentences are often too formal and far removed from everyday expressions. To speak authentic and natural English, you need exposure to dialogues in real contexts. Here, we have selected high-frequency English expressions for daily use, covering social, work, and travel scenarios. These will help you break free from 'textbook English' and learn how native speakers really talk. Below is this issue of '8000 English Sentences: When in Doubt.' Keep practicing, and your English will become closer to real life!

Really? Really? Are you serious? Are you serious? This set of expressions is commonly used when you are surprised or skeptical about what someone is saying. Using "Are you serious?" conveys doubt while still keeping the conversation casual. It’s a versatile phrase suitable for both formal and informal situations. Mastering this phrase can help you react naturally when you hear something that seems unbelievable or shocking.

Are you joking? Are you joking? This expression is often used in a lighter context compared to "Are you serious?" It suggests that you find the statement hard to believe, but it also implies humor. Using "Are you joking?" can break the ice in conversations and shows that you are attentive to what is being said. It’s important to notice the tone and facial expressions when using this phrase to avoid misunderstandings.

I doubt it. I doubt it. This phrase directly expresses skepticism. "Doubt" is a strong verb that clearly communicates your disbelief in the statement made. It is appropriate when you want to question the truth of what someone is saying without being too confrontational. Learning how to use "I doubt it" in different contexts will make your spoken English sound more natural and confident.

I won't buy that story. I won't buy that story. This idiomatic expression means that you do not believe what someone is telling you. "Buy" in this context figuratively means accepting or believing something. It’s often used when a story seems exaggerated or fabricated. Using idiomatic expressions like this can make your English sound more native and fluent.

It's too good to be true. It's too good to be true. This common phrase is used when something seems unusually positive or unbelievable. It indicates a natural skepticism about outcomes that appear perfect or unrealistic. Knowing how to use this phrase can help you express doubt politely in conversations and improve your ability to respond to surprising news or offers.

The above content is a summary prepared by Qicaiwang about '8000 English Sentences: When in Doubt.' We hope it is helpful for you!