rapturous-disbelief
/ˈræp.tʃə.rəs dɪs.bɪˈliːf/ IELTSAcademic
phrase
A strong feeling of shock mixed with great joy, wonder, or excitement. It describes a reaction when something seems unbelievable, but in a very happy way.
- She stared at the results in rapturous disbelief.
- The crowd watched in rapturous disbelief.
- He accepted the award in rapturous disbelief.
Adinary Nuance
Rapturous disbelief is stronger and more emotional than simple disbelief. It is not the same as shock, which can be negative, or amazement, which may be calmer. Writers use it when surprise and joy happen together. It often fits dramatic, happy moments like winning, success, or sudden good news.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sững sờ vui mừng
- Spanish
- incredulidad extática
- Chinese
- 欣喜的难以置信
- Japanese
- 歓喜の不信
- Korean
- 환희의 불신
Etymology
This phrase combines rapturous, from Latin raptus meaning 'carried away', and disbelief, from Old French and Middle English roots. It is a modern descriptive phrase, not a fixed historical term.
Common phrases
in rapturous disbeliefwith rapturous disbeliefa look of rapturous disbelief
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is rapturous disbelief formal or informal?
- It is descriptive and literary, so it feels more formal than everyday speech.
- How is it different from amazement?
- Amazement can be neutral. Rapturous disbelief adds strong joy and excitement.
- Can I use it in academic writing?
- Yes, if you want vivid emotional description. It is less common in technical writing.