DAILY ENGLISH VOCABULARY
NEWSLETTER
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Free Version
5 min read
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CASUAL · REACTION
TODAY YOU'LL MASTER
You're kidding
Disbelief that hopes it’s actually true.
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01
What it really means
“You're kidding” expresses disbelief, surprise, or shock at something the speaker just heard. The phrase implies this can't be true — even though the listener usually knows it is. Despite using the word kidding, the phrase isn't actually accusing the other person of joking. It's a reaction, not an accusation.
In one line: a reaction meaning I can’t believe it.
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02
See it in action
YOUYou're kidding! Congratulations!
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03
Say it like a native
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✕ INSTEAD OF
I find that hard to believe
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✓ TRY
You're kidding!
You're kidding me.
You've got to be kidding.
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CULTURE INSIGHT
Americans often use exaggerated language to express genuine surprise. “You're kidding” works because both speakers know the news is real — the phrase is celebrating the surprise, not questioning the truth. The bigger the news, the more this kind of reaction is expected and welcomed.
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YOUR CHALLENGE TODAY
Today, when someone shares surprising news with you in English, try “you're kidding!” as a reaction. Notice how the phrase signals engagement and warmth even though it sounds like disbelief. Real surprise is part of how Americans show they care.
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★ PREMIUM ★
NATIVE ENGLISH INSIDER
Now you know what it means. Time to hear how natives really say it.
Premium goes 3x deeper — and includes an advanced conversation between two native speakers, so you catch the tone, not just the words.
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See you tomorrow,
Teacher Tiffani
Daily English Vocabulary Newsletter
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