Whiteisms
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Etymology Journal ยท W

Well, I'll be damned

Meaning

An expression of intense surprise or disbelief. It is slightly edgier than its sanitized counterparts but still common in casual conversation.

Surprised, slightly rough

Used in a sentence

  • Well, I'll be damned, it actually worked.
  • Well, I'll be damned if that isn't the prettiest sunset I have seen.
  • Well, I'll be damned, I found my wallet under the seat.

The backstory

Rooted in traditional swearing, this phrase essentially means that if the current situation is true, the speaker is willing to face spiritual consequences.

Heard in

Nationwide

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