Definitely

[0053] Couldn't agree more

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English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • An emphatic way of saying I completely agree.
  • The structure implies that it's impossible to agree more than you already do.

Origin

  • Standard English idiomatic phrase.
  • Uses a negative structure (couldn't) to express a strong positive (complete agreement).

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • I completely agree.
  • Absolutely. / Definitely. (Used for agreement)
  • You took the words right out of my mouth.
  • My thoughts exactly.
  • Precisely.
  • Hear, hear! (Formal, often in response to a speech)
  • You can say that again.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

  • Tell me about it.
  • You ain't wrong.
  • Word. / Word up.
  • Preach. (Online/informal)
  • So true.

Vulgar/Emphatic:

  • No fucking kidding.
  • Damn right.
  • Fuckin' A.

Milder/Standard:

  • I thoroughly agree.
  • That's exactly how I feel.
  • You're absolutely right.

Situational Appropriateness

  • Appropriate in most situations, from informal to semi-formal.
  • Can be used in professional settings, though slightly less formal than I completely agree.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • The negative structure (couldn't) might initially confuse learners, but the meaning is positive (strong agreement). Context usually makes it clear.

Examples

  • Person A: This project is taking way too long. Person B: Couldn't agree more.
  • We really need a vacation after all this. Couldn't agree more!

Dialogue

Anna: The service at that restaurant was terrible.

Mark: Couldn't agree more. We waited ages just for water.

Anna: I know! And the waiter was so rude.

Mark: We're definitely not going back there.

Social Media Examples

  • Reply to a tweet: Public transport needs more funding. -> Couldn't agree more. It's essential.
  • Forum comment: User A: The latest update broke several features. User B: Couldn't agree more, it's been a disaster for me.
  • Facebook comment on a shared opinion piece: Couldn't agree more with this article.

Response Patterns

  • Right?
  • Exactly.
  • Glad we're on the same page.
  • Often followed by shared sentiments or complaints.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone says Couldn't agree more:

  • The original speaker might elaborate further on their point (Yeah, it feels like we've been working on it forever.).
  • The conversation usually continues along the lines of the shared opinion, perhaps discussing solutions or just venting.

Conversation Starter

  • No.
  • Strictly a response expressing strong agreement.

Intonation

  • Strong, sincere tone.
  • Stress often falls on couldn't and more. COULDN'T agree MORE.
  • Falling intonation.

Generation Differences

  • Widely used and understood across generations.

Regional Variations

  • Common in all major English-speaking regions.
Definitely
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