Monkey’s Uncle, I’ll Be/A’m a
Monkey’s Uncle, I’ll Be/A’m a – An expression of surprise or disbelief. Why that particular animal was chosen is no longer known, and indeed the cliché, which dates from the early 1900s, is heard less often today. Eric V. Lustbader used it in White Ninja (1990): “If this doesn’t turn out to be a suicide, I am a monkey’s uncle.”
Related and Similar Terms:
- I Can’t Believe My Eyes: Another phrase expressing profound disbelief. Perfect for magicians and sci-fi enthusiasts!
- Holy Moly: A humorous surprise expression that makes you wonder—what is a “moly” anyway?
- Well, I’ll Be Darned: For those who prefer keeping surprises PG-rated.
- I’ll Eat My Hat: Usually implies a situation so unlikely that you’d do something absurd if it happens.
Proverbs and Common Phrases:
- Proverb Example: “Seeing is believing.” Remember, you need solid evidence to turn a skeptic into a believer.
- Proverb Twist: “Hearing is also pretty convincing… unless you’re my uncle the monkey.”
Synonyms:
- Astounded
- Baffled
- Flabbergasted
- Gobsmacked (for our British mates!)
Antonyms:
- Unsurprised
- Predictable
- Certain
Humor-Filled Quotes:
- “If this doesn’t work, I’ll be riding kangaroos in no time!” – Random Aussie
- “Well, paint me green and call me a cucumber!” – Astonished Person
Recommended Literature & Media:
- Books:
- White Ninja by Eric V. Lustbader – Enjoy the full quote in context.
- Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll – For a story that’s brimming with surprising turns.
- Songs:
- “Surprise Surprise” by Bruce Springsteen – Sing along next time you’re monkey-surprised.
- Movies:
- The Sixth Sense – A cinematic masterpiece of surprise and delight.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
“Never hold back your disbelief; it’s what keeps the world magical and your heart curious.”
May your days be filled with delightful astonishments! 🔮🦊✨
### Which of these idioms expresses surprise?
- [x] I’m a monkey’s uncle
- [ ] Pineapples falling upwards
- [ ] Forks on the ceiling
- [ ] Shoes in the skies
> **Explanation:** "I’m a monkey’s uncle" is a genuine expression of surprise. If pineapples ever fall upward, you'll need an entirely different idiom!
### What expression might someone use to show disbelief casually?
- [ ] Oysters in the moon
- [ ] Sardines in the vacuum
- [ ] I’ll be a rusty spoon
- [x] Holy moly
> **Explanation:** "Holy moly" is a classic expression of WOW when things happen out of the blue!
### True or False: 'I can’t believe my eyes' is a form of expressing shock.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Absolutely true, because sometimes your eyes might deceive you in such surprising moments.
