Quick Answer
That’s incredible is used to express strong amazement, admiration, or disbelief about something impressive or hard to believe.Five of the best alternatives are that’s amazing, that’s unbelievable, that’s outstanding, that’s remarkable, and that’s phenomenal.
Looking for 40 Other Ways to Say That’s Incredible? Whether you’re expressing admiration, surprise, or excitement, using different phrases can make your conversations sound more natural and engaging. In this guide, you’ll discover the best alternatives to “That’s Incredible”, complete with meanings, examples, and the ideal situations for using each one.
Why People Search For Other Ways to Say That’s Incredible
Learners and native speakers alike search for other ways to say that’s incredible for several reasons. Some want to avoid sounding repetitive in conversation. Others are writing emails, reviews, or social media posts and want fresher, more precise language. Many English learners want to understand the difference between spoken and written usage, or between formal and informal communication, so they can choose expressions that match the situation correctly.
People searching this phrase are usually looking for alternatives to that’s incredible, other ways to say that’s incredible, professional English phrases for admiration, and informal expressions in English that feel natural rather than textbook stiff. Understanding spoken versus written usage matters because a phrase like that’s ridiculous works perfectly in a text message to a friend but sounds completely wrong in a business email. Similarly, formal versus informal intent shapes word choice heavily. A workplace compliment needs a controlled, professional tone, while a reaction to a friend’s surprise announcement can be loud, casual, and full of personality.
Tone Ladder System
English expressions of amazement exist on a scale from very formal to very informal. Knowing where each phrase sits on this ladder helps you choose correctly every time.
Very Formal
These phrases are best for official writing, business communication, and academic or professional contexts. Examples include that is truly exceptional and that is most impressive.
Formal
These work well in professional emails, workplace conversations, and polite spoken English. Examples include that’s outstanding and that’s remarkable.
Neutral
These are safe for almost any context, spoken or written, without sounding too stiff or too casual. Examples include that’s amazing and that’s fantastic.
Casual
These suit everyday conversations with colleagues, acquaintances, or in relaxed writing like blog posts. Examples include that’s awesome and that’s wild.
Informal
These are best for close friends, family, or casual texting, and often carry strong emotional energy. Examples include that’s ridiculous and no way, that’s wild.
Very formal phrases sound the most professional and are ideal for written reports, formal emails, or public speaking. Neutral and casual phrases work best for spoken English because they flow naturally in everyday conversation. Formal and very formal phrases are generally reserved for writing, since using them in casual speech can sound overly stiff or even sarcastic.
Table: Tone Classification
| Phrase | Tone Level | Formality | Best Situation |
|---|---|---|---|
| That is truly exceptional | Very Formal | High | Formal reports, official praise |
| That is most impressive | Very Formal | High | Academic or executive settings |
| That’s outstanding | Formal | High | Performance reviews, emails |
| That’s remarkable | Formal | High | Professional conversations |
| That’s extraordinary | Formal | Medium High | Presentations, formal speech |
| That’s amazing | Neutral | Medium | General conversation, writing |
| That’s fantastic | Neutral | Medium | Everyday professional chat |
| That’s phenomenal | Neutral | Medium | Reviews, social posts |
| That’s awesome | Casual | Low Medium | Friends, casual workplace |
| That’s wild | Casual | Low Medium | Informal chats, social media |
| That’s ridiculous | Informal | Low | Close friends, texting |
| No way, that’s wild | Informal | Low | Excited spoken reactions |
Quick Selection Guide
Interview
Use that’s impressive or that’s remarkable to sound polished and professional without overdoing it.
Use that’s outstanding or that is truly exceptional to keep your writing formal and appropriate for workplace communication.
Networking
Use that’s fantastic or that’s incredible work to sound warm, professional, and approachable at the same time.
Casual Conversation
Use that’s awesome or no way, that’s wild to match the relaxed, energetic tone of friendly conversation.
Real Life Conversation Transformations
Job Interview Scenario
Before: Wow, that’s incredible, you built a whole company from nothing. After: That’s genuinely impressive, building a company from the ground up shows real determination.
Networking Event Scenario
Before: That’s incredible, I can’t believe you did that. After: That’s remarkable work, I would love to hear more about how you approached it.
Email Scenario
Before: That’s incredible news, congratulations. After: This is truly outstanding news, congratulations on such a well deserved achievement.
Casual Conversation Scenario
Before: That’s incredible, no way. After: That’s absolutely wild, I did not see that coming at all.
40 Other Ways to Say That’s Incredible
Below are more than forty carefully explained alternatives. Each one includes its meaning, an example, its tone, and where it works best or worst.
1. That’s Amazing
Meaning: Expresses strong positive surprise or admiration. Explanation: A safe, widely used phrase suitable for almost any context. Example: That’s amazing, you finished the whole project early. Tone: Neutral Best Use: General conversation and writing. Worst Use: Very formal academic writing. Context Variability: Works equally well spoken or written.
2. That’s Unbelievable
Meaning: Expresses disbelief mixed with admiration. Explanation: Often used when something seems too good or too surprising to be true. Example: That’s unbelievable, you finished a marathon in under three hours. Tone: Neutral to Casual Best Use: Reacting to surprising achievements. Worst Use: Formal written reports. Context Variability: Common in both speech and casual writing.
3. That’s Outstanding
Meaning: Highlights exceptional quality or performance. Explanation: Common in professional feedback and evaluations. Example: That’s outstanding work on the quarterly report. Tone: Formal Best Use: Workplace praise and performance reviews. Worst Use: Casual texting with friends. Context Variability: Mostly written and formal spoken contexts.
4. That’s Remarkable
Meaning: Describes something worthy of attention or notice. Explanation: Slightly more sophisticated than amazing, often used for achievements. Example: That’s remarkable progress in such a short time. Tone: Formal Best Use: Professional conversations and writing. Worst Use: Very casual chats. Context Variability: Works well in interviews, emails, and speeches.
5. That’s Phenomenal
Meaning: Expresses that something is extraordinary or outside the norm. Explanation: Often used for performances, results, or achievements. Example: That’s a phenomenal sales record this quarter. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Business results, performance highlights. Worst Use: Small, everyday compliments. Context Variability: Common in written reports and spoken praise.
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6. That’s Extraordinary
Meaning: Describes something beyond what is usual or expected. Explanation: Adds weight and formality to a compliment. Example: That’s extraordinary dedication to your craft. Tone: Formal Best Use: Formal speeches, written recognition. Worst Use: Casual texting. Context Variability: Mostly formal spoken and written English.
7. That’s Impressive
Meaning: Shows admiration for skill, effort, or results. Explanation: One of the most versatile and widely used alternatives. Example: That’s impressive, you learned the language in six months. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Interviews, workplace, everyday conversation. Worst Use: Rarely inappropriate, works almost everywhere. Context Variability: Extremely flexible across spoken and written contexts.
8. That’s Astonishing
Meaning: Expresses great surprise, often mixed with awe. Explanation: Slightly more dramatic and literary than amazing. Example: That’s astonishing, the results exceeded every expectation. Tone: Formal Best Use: Written descriptions, formal speech. Worst Use: Casual texting. Context Variability: More common in writing than speech.
9. That’s Awesome
Meaning: A casual way to express strong approval or excitement. Explanation: Extremely common in everyday American English. Example: That’s awesome, I’m so happy for you. Tone: Casual Best Use: Friends, casual workplace chats. Worst Use: Formal emails or interviews. Context Variability: Mostly spoken and informal writing.
10. That’s Wild
Meaning: Expresses surprise, often about something unexpected or dramatic. Explanation: Popular in casual and social media conversation. Example: That’s wild, I had no idea that happened. Tone: Casual Best Use: Informal chats, social media captions. Worst Use: Professional writing. Context Variability: Almost entirely spoken and casual written contexts.
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11. That’s ridiculous
Meaning: Expresses strong disbelief or shock, often positively. Explanation: Common among younger speakers and casual conversation. Example: That’s ridiculous, you beat your own record again. Tone: Informal Best Use: Close friends, casual reactions. Worst Use: Any professional setting. Context Variability: Almost exclusively spoken and informal texting.
12. That’s Mind Blowing
Meaning: Describes something so impressive it feels overwhelming. Explanation: Highly expressive and emotional phrase. Example: That’s mind blowing, I never expected such results. Tone: Casual Best Use: Reacting to surprising news or achievements. Worst Use: Formal writing or interviews. Context Variability: Mostly spoken, occasionally used in casual blogs.
13. That’s Incredible Work
Meaning: Specifically praises effort or output rather than the person. Explanation: Useful when complimenting a project or task. Example: That’s incredible work on the new design. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Workplace feedback, networking. Worst Use: Reacting to personal news unrelated to work. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written professional contexts.
14. That’s Exceptional
Meaning: Highlights something rare or above average. Explanation: Frequently used in academic and professional evaluations. Example: That’s exceptional performance for a first attempt. Tone: Formal Best Use: Reviews, formal recognition. Worst Use: Everyday casual talk. Context Variability: Mostly written and formal spoken English.
15. That’s Fantastic
Meaning: Expresses enthusiastic approval or excitement. Explanation: Warm and versatile, suitable for many situations. Example: That’s fantastic news about your promotion. Tone: Neutral Best Use: General conversation, congratulations messages. Worst Use: Very formal academic writing. Context Variability: Works well spoken and written.
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16. That’s Out Of This World
Meaning: Describes something extraordinarily impressive. Explanation: An idiomatic, colorful expression of amazement. Example: That performance was out of this world. Tone: Casual Best Use: Reviews, casual praise, entertainment contexts. Worst Use: Formal business writing. Context Variability: Mostly spoken, occasionally in creative writing.
17. That’s Beyond Impressive
Meaning: Emphasizes that something exceeds normal impressiveness. Explanation: Adds intensity to a standard compliment. Example: That’s beyond impressive, I don’t know how you managed it. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Professional and personal praise. Worst Use: Very casual, quick reactions. Context Variability: Works in both speech and writing.
18. That’s Incredible News
Meaning: Reacts specifically to surprising or exciting information. Explanation: Common in both spoken reactions and written messages. Example: That’s incredible news, congratulations to the whole team. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Emails, messages, announcements. Worst Use: Reacting to skills or performance rather than news. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.
19. That’s Truly Exceptional
Meaning: A stronger, more formal version of exceptional. Explanation: Adds emphasis and sincerity to formal praise. Example: That is truly exceptional leadership during a difficult time. Tone: Very Formal Best Use: Official recognition, formal writing. Worst Use: Everyday casual conversation. Context Variability: Almost entirely written or formal spoken contexts.
20. That’s Most Impressive
Meaning: A formal, slightly old fashioned way to express admiration. Explanation: Common in British English and formal contexts. Example: That is most impressive given the limited resources available. Tone: Very Formal Best Use: Formal speeches, executive communication. Worst Use: Casual texting or spoken slang contexts. Context Variability: Mostly formal written and spoken English.
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21. No Way, That’s Wild
Meaning: An excited, informal reaction of disbelief. Explanation: Very common in spoken American English. Example: No way, that’s wild, you actually met them. Tone: Informal Best Use: Close friends, spoken reactions. Worst Use: Any professional communication. Context Variability: Almost entirely spoken.
22. That’s Spectacular
Meaning: Describes something visually or emotionally striking and impressive. Explanation: Often used for performances, views, or achievements. Example: The fireworks display was absolutely spectacular. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Reviews, descriptions, event related praise. Worst Use: Small everyday accomplishments. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written contexts.
23. That’s Superb
Meaning: Expresses excellence or top quality. Explanation: A polished, slightly formal compliment. Example: That’s superb craftsmanship on this piece. Tone: Formal Best Use: Reviews, formal praise, professional feedback. Worst Use: Casual texting. Context Variability: More common in writing and formal speech.
24. That’s Jaw Dropping
Meaning: Describes something so impressive it causes shock. Explanation: A vivid, idiomatic expression. Example: The magician’s trick was absolutely jaw dropping. Tone: Casual Best Use: Entertainment, performances, dramatic reactions. Worst Use: Formal business contexts. Context Variability: Mostly spoken and informal writing.
25. That’s a Game Changer
Meaning: Describes something impressive because of its impact rather than surprise alone. Explanation: Common in business and technology contexts. Example: This new software is a real game changer for our workflow. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Business, innovation, workplace discussions. Worst Use: Personal compliments unrelated to impact. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written professional English.
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26. That’s Awe Inspiring
Meaning: Describes something that creates a strong sense of wonder. Explanation: A more literary, elevated expression. Example: The view from the summit was awe inspiring. Tone: Formal Best Use: Descriptive writing, formal speech. Worst Use: Quick casual reactions. Context Variability: Mostly written and formal spoken English.
27. That’s Incredible Effort
Meaning: Praises the amount of work or dedication behind a result. Explanation: Focuses on process rather than outcome alone. Example: That’s incredible effort considering the tight deadline. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Workplace feedback, coaching, mentoring. Worst Use: Reacting to sudden news unrelated to effort. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written contexts.
28. That’s Absolutely Stunning
Meaning: Combines amazement with visual or emotional impact. Explanation: Often used for appearance, design, or performance. Example: The wedding venue looked absolutely stunning. Tone: Neutral to Casual Best Use: Compliments about visuals, events, design. Worst Use: Formal business achievements. Context Variability: Common in spoken and casual written English.
29. That’s Truly Remarkable
Meaning: A stronger version of remarkable with added sincerity. Explanation: Suitable for formal recognition and heartfelt praise. Example: That’s truly remarkable given everything you overcame. Tone: Formal Best Use: Formal speeches, heartfelt written messages. Worst Use: Quick casual chats. Context Variability: Mostly formal spoken and written English.
30. That’s Off The Charts
Meaning: Describes performance or results that exceed normal measurement. Explanation: An idiomatic expression common in casual and business speech. Example: Sales this month were off the charts. Tone: Casual to Neutral Best Use: Business results, performance discussions. Worst Use: Formal written documentation. Context Variability: Common in spoken English and informal writing.
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31. That’s Beyond Words
Meaning: Expresses that something is too impressive to fully describe. Explanation: Often used for emotional or deeply moving moments. Example: Watching them graduate was beyond words. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Emotional, heartfelt reactions. Worst Use: Casual quick replies. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.
32. That’s Groundbreaking
Meaning: Describes something new, innovative, and highly significant. Explanation: Frequently used in science, technology, and research contexts. Example: That’s groundbreaking research in renewable energy. Tone: Formal Best Use: Academic, scientific, and professional writing. Worst Use: Everyday personal compliments. Context Variability: Mostly formal written and spoken English.
33. That’s Beyond Expectations
Meaning: Highlights that something surpassed what was anticipated. Explanation: Common in performance reviews and feedback. Example: The results were beyond expectations this quarter. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Business feedback, performance evaluations. Worst Use: Casual, spontaneous reactions. Context Variability: Common in professional writing and speech.
34. That’s Incredible to Hear
Meaning: A polite, warm way to react to good news someone shares. Explanation: Focuses on the listener’s reaction rather than the achievement itself. Example: That’s incredible to hear, congratulations on the new role. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Conversations, messages, networking. Worst Use: Formal written reports. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.
35. That’s a Huge Achievement
Meaning: Emphasizes the significance or scale of an accomplishment. Explanation: Direct and clear, ideal for recognition contexts. Example: Finishing the certification while working full time is a huge achievement. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Personal and professional recognition. Worst Use: Very formal literary writing. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written contexts.
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36. That’s Nothing Short of Amazing
Meaning: Strongly emphasizes that something fully deserves the word amazing. Explanation: Adds intensity through a common idiomatic structure. Example: That’s nothing short of amazing given the circumstances. Tone: Neutral to Formal Best Use: Written praise, speeches, recognition. Worst Use: Quick casual replies. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.
37. That’s Truly Outstanding
Meaning: A stronger, more sincere version of outstanding. Explanation: Frequently used in formal recognition and awards. Example: That’s truly outstanding leadership during the crisis. Tone: Formal Best Use: Formal recognition, awards, workplace praise. Worst Use: Casual daily conversation. Context Variability: Mostly formal spoken and written English.
38. That’s Simply Amazing
Meaning: Adds emphasis to amazing without changing formality much. Explanation: A slightly more expressive version of a common phrase. Example: That’s simply amazing, well done. Tone: Neutral Best Use: General conversation and writing. Worst Use: Very formal academic contexts. Context Variability: Works well in both spoken and written English.
39. That’s Incredible Progress
Meaning: Highlights improvement or growth rather than a final result. Explanation: Useful for coaching, mentoring, and feedback contexts. Example: That’s incredible progress since we last spoke. Tone: Neutral Best Use: Mentoring, workplace feedback, personal growth talks. Worst Use: Reacting to sudden unrelated news. Context Variability: Common in spoken and written professional English.
40. That’s Absolutely Incredible
Meaning: Adds emphasis to the original phrase without changing its core meaning. Explanation: Useful when you want to stay close to the original phrase but sound more expressive. Example: That’s absolutely incredible, I’m so proud of you. Tone: Neutral to Casual Best Use: Personal congratulations, spoken reactions. Worst Use: Very formal business writing. Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.
Table: Usage Comparison
| Phrase | Spoken Use | Written Use | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| That’s amazing | High | High | General, all purpose |
| That’s outstanding | Medium | High | Workplace, formal writing |
| That’s ridiculous | High | Low | Casual, texting |
| That’s remarkable | Medium | High | Professional, formal |
| That’s awesome | High | Medium | Casual, everyday |
| That’s exceptional | Low | High | Reviews, evaluations |
| That’s wild | High | Low | Social media, casual chat |
| That’s groundbreaking | Low | High | Academic, technical writing |
| That’s a game changer | Medium | High | Business, innovation talk |
| That’s beyond words | Medium | High | Emotional, heartfelt writing |
Email and LinkedIn Ready Expressions
Email Greetings
I hope this message finds you well and I wanted to share how impressed I was by your recent work.
Professional Introductions
It’s a pleasure to connect, and I have to say, your recent achievement is truly outstanding.
LinkedIn Connection Messages
I came across your profile and found your career progress genuinely impressive, I would love to connect.
Follow Up Lines
Following up to say again how remarkable your presentation was, it left a lasting impression on the team.
Native Speaker Insight
Native English speakers rarely rely on a single phrase repeatedly. In conversation, they often shorten reactions to quick expressions like that’s awesome or no way rather than full sentences. In writing, they tend to choose more precise, context specific words such as exceptional or groundbreaking instead of a generic incredible. Phrases like that is most impressive can sound unnatural or overly formal if used in casual speech, while ridiculous or wild would sound out of place in a business email. The most natural approach is matching phrase intensity to the actual size of the achievement, since overusing extreme words for small events can sound insincere.
Common Mistakes and What Not to Say
Using overly formal phrases like that is truly exceptional in casual texting can sound sarcastic or robotic. Using very informal phrases like that’s ridiculous in a professional email can damage credibility. Mixing tone within the same message, such as combining an informal expression with formal sentence structure, creates awkward inconsistency. Repeating the exact same phrase throughout a conversation reduces its impact and can sound insincere or scripted.
Expansion Phrases
Greeting variations include phrases like great to see you and wonderful to connect with you. Introduction phrases include I’d love to know more about your work and your background is fascinating. Polite communication alternatives include I really appreciate you sharing that and this is genuinely inspiring to hear. Conversational English upgrades include instead of saying good job, try that’s genuinely impressive work.
Table: Decision Making
| Situation | Best Phrase | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Job interview | That’s impressive | Professional yet warm |
| Formal email | That’s outstanding | Polished and workplace appropriate |
| Networking event | That’s remarkable work | Shows genuine engagement |
| Close friends | That’s ridiculous | Matches casual energy |
| Performance review | That’s exceptional | Precise and formal |
| Social media caption | That’s wild | Fits casual online tone |
| Congratulations message | That’s incredible news | Warm and widely appropriate |
| Academic recognition | That’s groundbreaking | Highlights innovation |
Quick Fast List
- That’s amazing
- That’s outstanding
- That’s remarkable
- That’s impressive
- That’s phenomenal
- That’s exceptional
- That’s fantastic
- That’s awesome
- That’s wild
- That’s a game changer
Mini Quiz
Test your understanding of when to use these alternatives. Choose the best answer for each scenario.
Question 1
You’re writing a formal performance review for an employee who exceeded expectations. Which phrase is the most appropriate?
A) That’s ridiculous
B) That’s exceptional
C) That’s wild
Answer: B) That’s exceptional
Explanation: That’s exceptional is professional, respectful, and well suited to performance reviews. The other options are too informal for workplace evaluations.
Question 2
You’re sending a text message to a close friend after hearing some exciting news. Which phrase sounds the most natural?
A) That is most impressive
B) That’s ridiculous
C) That’s truly exceptional
Answer: B) That’s ridiculous
Explanation: That’s ridiculous is a common informal expression used to show excitement or amazement in casual conversations with friends.
Question 3
You’re writing a LinkedIn message to congratulate a new professional connection on a recent achievement. Which phrase fits best?
A) That’s wild
B) That’s remarkable work
C) No way, that’s wild
Answer: B) That’s remarkable work
Explanation: That’s remarkable work is polished, professional, and appropriate for LinkedIn. It expresses genuine admiration while maintaining a business-appropriate tone.
Question 4
You’re writing an academic paper describing an important scientific discovery. Which phrase is the most appropriate?
A) That’s groundbreaking
B) That’s awesome
C) That’s ridiculous
Answer: A) That’s groundbreaking
Explanation: That’s groundbreaking is widely used in academic and scientific writing to describe innovative research or significant discoveries. The other options are too informal for scholarly contexts.
FAQs
Is it polite to say that’s incredible in a professional setting
Yes, but stronger alternatives like that’s outstanding or that’s remarkable often sound more polished and professional.
What is more professional than that’s incredible
Phrases like that’s exceptional, that’s outstanding, and that is truly exceptional sound more formal and workplace appropriate.
Can I use this in an email
Yes, that’s incredible works in emails, though slightly more formal versions like that’s outstanding or that’s remarkable are often preferred in business writing.
What do native speakers say instead
Native speakers often use that’s awesome, that’s wild, or that’s ridiculous in casual speech, while choosing exceptional or remarkable in formal writing.
What is the best alternative for that’s incredible in an interview
That’s impressive is one of the safest and most natural choices for interview settings.
Conclusion
Learning multiple ways to say that’s incredible allows you to communicate with more precision, personality, and professionalism depending on the situation. From formal workplace praise to casual reactions among friends, choosing the right tone shows stronger command of natural English and helps you avoid sounding repetitive or robotic.
Practice using different phrases in daily conversations, emails, and social interactions so that expressing amazement becomes natural rather than repetitive. Over time, this small habit will make your spoken and written English sound far more fluent, expressive, and confident.
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Zoe Chambers works as a content writer at synoseek.com, contributing thoughtful pieces on everyday subjects and ideas. She writes in a simple, grounded way, often drawing from real-world experiences. Her focus is on keeping content natural, clear and easy for readers to connect with.
