too good to be true
Meaning
So surprisingly good that it seems unlikely to be real or genuine; probably a trick, exaggeration, or mistake.
Origin
From the literal idea that some outcomes are so favorable they strain belief; popularized in modern advertising/consumer contexts and now widely used for skepticism about deals, claims, or luck.
Notes
Often signals skepticism or caution about an offer, claim, or stroke of luck. Common in everyday speech and consumer contexts (deals, ads, online scams).
Examples
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The deal sounded too good to be true, so I read the fine print twice.
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Her sudden apology felt too good to be true after months of silence.
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The apartment was so cheap and spacious that it seemed too good to be true.
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If a job offer is too good to be true, itβs worth verifying the company first.
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Winning free tickets on my first try felt too good to be true.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase; commonly used as a predicate complement: "It sounds/seems too good to be true." Can modify a noun phrase: "a deal too good to be true." Sometimes used alone as a comment.
Synonyms
- hard to believe
- almost unbelievable
- sounds fishy
- seems unreal
- suspiciously good
Antonyms
- credible
- believable
- plausible
- true
- legitimate