What does “I'll be a monkey's uncle” mean?
"I'll be a monkey's uncle" means expressing surprise or disbelief.
What context can I use the in?
Example
You actually won the lottery? Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle!
Example
You finished the marathon in under 3 hours? I'll be a monkey's uncle!
Example
You're telling me you're dating a celebrity? I'll be a monkey's uncle
Is “I'll be a monkey's uncle” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“I'll be a monkey's uncle” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “I'll be a monkey's uncle” effectively in context?
You can use "I'll be a monkey's uncle" to express surprise or disbelief. It is often used in response to hearing something unexpected or hard to believe. For example, if someone tells you they won the lottery, you might respond, 'You actually won the lottery? Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle!'
- 1Hearing surprising news
You finished the marathon in under 3 hours? I'll be a monkey's uncle!
- 2Receiving unexpected information
You're telling me you're dating a celebrity? I'll be a monkey's uncle!
- 3Expressing disbelief
You actually won the lottery? Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle!
Similar phrases to “I'll be a monkey's uncle”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “I'll be a monkey's uncle” come from?
The origin of the phrase "I'll be a monkey's uncle" is unknown.
Is “I'll be a monkey's uncle” common in everyday conversation?
"I'll be a monkey's uncle" is not a very common phrase in everyday conversation. It is more often used in informal settings or in a lighthearted manner among friends and family.
What tone does “I'll be a monkey's uncle” have?
"I'll be a monkey's uncle" conveys a tone of surprise and disbelief. It is usually used in a playful or humorous way to express astonishment at something unexpected or hard to believe.
Can “I'll be a monkey's uncle” be used in informal and formal settings?
"I'll be a monkey's uncle" is considered an informal expression. It is not typically used in formal or professional settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'You won the lottery? Well, I'll be a monkey's uncle!' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'll be a monkey's uncle!' to express surprise.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- unbelievable
- incredible
- astounding
- i can't believe it
- mind-blowing
Antonyms
- believable
- plausible
- that makes sense
- i expected that
- not surprising