In 15 Seconds
- Use it to show you are very impressed or pleasantly surprised.
- Perfect for reacting to good news, talent, or beautiful things.
- Keep your tone upbeat to avoid sounding sarcastic or bored.
Meaning
You use this phrase to show you are very impressed or surprised by something good. It is like saying 'Wow, that is incredible!' when you see or hear something great.
Key Examples
3 of 6A friend shares big news
You got the job? That's amazing!
You got the job? That's amazing!
Watching a street performer
Wow, look at him juggle! That's amazing.
Wow, look at him juggle! That's amazing.
In a business meeting
We increased sales by 50%? That's amazing news for the team.
We increased sales by 50%? That's amazing news for the team.
Cultural Background
Americans use 'amazing' very frequently, sometimes for minor things like a good sandwich. British speakers might use 'brilliant' or 'fantastic' as often as 'amazing'. Compliments are often accompanied by religious blessings to show sincerity.
Use your face
When you say 'That's amazing,' smile! It makes the phrase sound much more sincere.
Add a 'Wow'
Saying 'Wow, that's amazing!' is the most natural way to sound like a native speaker.
In 15 Seconds
- Use it to show you are very impressed or pleasantly surprised.
- Perfect for reacting to good news, talent, or beautiful things.
- Keep your tone upbeat to avoid sounding sarcastic or bored.
What It Means
That's amazing is a high-energy way to show you are impressed. It means something is far better than just 'good' or 'nice.' When you say it, you are showing genuine wonder. It is a verbal high-five for a great situation. Use it when you are pleasantly shocked by a result.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase as a standalone reaction. If a friend tells you they won the lottery, just say That's amazing! You can also add it to the end of a sentence. For example, 'You finished the marathon? That's amazing!' Make sure your voice goes up at the end. If you say it with a flat voice, people might think you are being sarcastic. Nobody likes a sarcastic robot friend.
When To Use It
Use it when you see a beautiful sunset or a clever magic trick. It is perfect for celebrating a friend's promotion at work. Use it when you taste a dish that is surprisingly delicious. It works great in text messages with plenty of emojis. Use it when a toddler shows you a drawing that actually looks like a dog. It is a very positive, supportive phrase for everyday life.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for small, boring things. If someone says they bought milk, That's amazing sounds a bit weird. Avoid using it during very sad or serious moments. If a friend loses their keys, do not say That's amazing unless you want an argument. Also, be careful in very stiff, academic settings. It might feel a bit too emotional for a funeral or a tax audit.
Cultural Background
English speakers, especially in North America, love using 'strong' adjectives. We often prefer amazing over 'good' to show we are being friendly. It reflects a culture of being an 'active listener.' By saying That's amazing, you show you are paying attention. It is a tool for building social bonds and showing enthusiasm. It became even more popular with social media culture and 'viral' videos.
Common Variations
You can swap amazing for other powerful words. Try That's incredible for things that are hard to believe. Use That's awesome for something cool or fun. If you want to sound very British, you might say That's brilliant. For a more modern, younger vibe, you could even say That's insane. Just remember that That's amazing is the safest, most versatile choice for everyone.
Usage Notes
This phrase is highly versatile and fits almost any social situation. Just ensure your facial expression matches the enthusiasm of the words.
Use your face
When you say 'That's amazing,' smile! It makes the phrase sound much more sincere.
Add a 'Wow'
Saying 'Wow, that's amazing!' is the most natural way to sound like a native speaker.
Don't overdo it
If you say 'That's amazing' to everything, it loses its power. Save it for truly great news.
Examples
6You got the job? That's amazing!
You got the job? That's amazing!
A classic reaction to a friend's success.
Wow, look at him juggle! That's amazing.
Wow, look at him juggle! That's amazing.
Used to express wonder at a skill.
We increased sales by 50%? That's amazing news for the team.
We increased sales by 50%? That's amazing news for the team.
Professional but shows high levels of satisfaction.
I just saw your vacation photos. That's amazing! Where is that?
I just saw your vacation photos. That's amazing! Where is that?
Used to react to visual beauty in a digital chat.
We both wore the same socks today? That's amazing.
We both wore the same socks today? That's amazing.
Using a big word for a small, funny coincidence.
You're feeling much better today? That's amazing, I'm so happy.
You're feeling much better today? That's amazing, I'm so happy.
Shows deep relief and emotional support.
Test Yourself
Which response is most natural?
My team won the championship! - ________
Since winning is good news, you should use a positive expression.
Complete the sentence.
Look at the stars tonight. ________ amazing!
The phrase is 'That's amazing.'
Choose the best reply.
I just finished my book! - ________
Finishing a book is an achievement, so 'amazing' is appropriate.
When should you NOT use this phrase?
Which situation is inappropriate?
Never use positive phrases for tragic events.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMy team won the championship! - ________
Since winning is good news, you should use a positive expression.
Look at the stars tonight. ________ amazing!
The phrase is 'That's amazing.'
I just finished my book! - ________
Finishing a book is an achievement, so 'amazing' is appropriate.
Which situation is inappropriate?
Never use positive phrases for tragic events.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsUsually, we say 'You are amazing' for a person. 'That's amazing' is for things or events.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Use 'That is truly remarkable' or 'That is impressive.'
It is better to say 'That's absolutely amazing.'
No, it is standard English.
Never. It sounds sarcastic and rude.
Yes, it is great for positive feedback in emails.
'Awesome' is more casual and common in the US.
Related Phrases
That's incredible
synonymVery similar to amazing.
That's awesome
synonymVery casual.
That's wonderful
synonymExpresses happiness.