Translation guide
Expresses disbelief, surprise, or a request for explanation about something that seems impossible or contradictory. Japanese uses various phrases depending on the nuance: seeking an explanation, expressing incredulity, or questioning the logic.
Reacting to something that seems impossible or shocking, often rhetorical.
A common, natural way to express disbelief. Literally 'Does such a thing exist/happen?' Used in casual conversation.
What? How can that be? I can't believe it.
Means 'impossible' or 'unbelievable'. A very common, casual reaction to something that shouldn't be possible.
How can that be? There's no way he would say that.
Expresses 'No way!' or 'It can't be!' Often used as an interjection of disbelief.
How can that be? That can't be right.
Literally 'How does it become like that?' Used when the logic or outcome is baffling.
How can that be? It doesn't make sense.
Genuinely seeking to understand how something is possible or true, not just expressing disbelief.
Polite way to ask 'How does that come about?' or 'How can that be?' Seeks a logical explanation.
Excuse me, how can that be? Could you explain it again?
Casual 'Why is that?' or 'How can that be?' Directly asks for the reason.
How can that be? Tell me the reason.
Means 'What do you mean?' or 'How can that be?' Used when something is unclear or contradictory.
Questioning the nature of reality or a situation, often not expecting an answer.
A more formal, literary way to say 'How can such a thing be possible?' Often used in writing or deep contemplation.
How can that be? I cannot comprehend it.
Directly translating 'how can that be?' word-for-word into Japanese (e.g., どうそれができる？) sounds unnatural. Use the phrases above that match the intended nuance.
The choice between casual and polite forms depends on the relationship. ありえない is very casual and can sound blunt. For polite settings, use どうしてそうなるんですか or どういうことですか.
How can that be? It seems contradictory.