incredible

Incredible is an adjective used to describe something that is very difficult to believe or that is extraordinarily remarkable. In everyday language, it can express astonishment or admiration, as in referring to an achievement as incredible. The word often signals that the thing exceeds normal expectations rather than merely being ordinary.

Originating from Middle English incredibil, from Latin incredibilis meaning "not able to be believed," derived from incredere "to not believe," the term initially conveyed disbelief. Over time, it came to describe things that are so remarkable as to inspire awe, not solely those that defy belief.

Usage and nuance. Incredible is commonly placed before a noun to indicate an exceptional quality, as in an incredible achievement, or used after the verb be to make broad claims. The adverb incredibly is often used to modify verbs or adjectives (incredibly fast, incredibly difficult).

Distinctions and tone. The word is not a synonym for credible, which means believable. Incredible can imply skepticism if used ironically, or convey praise when the context is positive. In contemporary usage, it is common in media and marketing but may risk hyperbole if overused.