When you’re excited or impressed by something, saying “How cool” is a natural response. But what if you want to sound more creative, enthusiastic, or just a little different? Finding alternatives to “how cool” can make your expressions more unique and memorable.
This guide will provide you with 30 alternative phrases that capture the same excitement and awe, but with fresh and thoughtful variations. Whether you’re reacting to someone’s achievement, an interesting idea, or an incredible experience, these alternatives will help you sound more engaged and add a touch of personality to your responses.
What Does “How Cool” Mean?
“How cool” is a casual expression used to show enthusiasm, admiration, or approval of something. It’s a way of indicating that you find something impressive, exciting, or intriguing. It can be used for a wide range of situations, from seeing a creative work to experiencing something fun or unexpected. It’s a versatile phrase that conveys both surprise and appreciation, typically in a relaxed, informal context.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “How Cool”?
In many professional settings, while “how cool” is generally friendly and positive, it can come across as overly casual, depending on the context and your audience. In more formal situations, a more refined alternative like “how impressive” or “that’s remarkable” might be more appropriate. However, in a creative, casual, or team-oriented environment, “how cool” can foster a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm. The key is to read the room and adjust based on the tone of the conversation.
Advantage or Disadvantage of Saying “How Cool”
Advantage:
- Expresses genuine excitement: It’s a great way to show unfiltered enthusiasm and positivity.
- Casual and friendly: It keeps things lighthearted and approachable, making it ideal for informal conversations.
Disadvantage:
- Too casual: In formal or professional settings, it may feel out of place.
- Overused: It’s a common phrase, so it may not stand out as much in conversations that require a more unique or thoughtful response.
How Cool Synonyms:
- That’s Awesome!
- That’s Incredible!
- That’s Impressive!
- How Amazing!
- That’s Epic!
- That’s Unbelievable!
- How Rad!
- That’s Fantastic!
- That’s Dope!
- That’s Wicked!
- That’s Fabulous!
- That’s Phenomenal!
- That’s Mind-Blowing!
- That’s Marvelous!
- That’s Unmatched!
- That’s Extraordinary!
- That’s Fantastic!
- That’s Stunning!
- That’s Brilliant!
- That’s Terrific!
- That’s Fabulous!
- That’s Sensational!
- That’s Out of This World!
- That’s Jaw-Dropping!
- That’s So Impressive!
- That’s Unbelievably Good!
- That’s So Cool!
- That’s Brilliantly Done!
- That’s Blowing My Mind!
- That’s Super Cool!
1. That’s Awesome!
Meaning: Expressing high praise and approval.
Definition: A phrase used to convey enthusiasm about something impressive or inspiring.
Detailed Explanation: “Awesome” emphasizes something that exceeds expectations and is awe-inspiring.
Scenario Example:
“That’s awesome! I can’t believe you finished the project early!”
Best Use: Great for reacting to a great accomplishment or an exciting piece of news.
Tone: Positive, upbeat, and encouraging.
2. That’s Incredible!
Meaning: A more intense version of “cool,” suggesting amazement.
Definition: Expressing disbelief or admiration for something extraordinary.
Detailed Explanation: “Incredible” implies that the thing you’re reacting to is almost too remarkable to believe.
Scenario Example:
“That’s incredible! I never thought it could be done so well.”
Best Use: Ideal when reacting to something that feels hard to believe or exceptionally good.
Tone: Enthusiastic, amazed, and appreciative.
3. That’s Impressive!
Meaning: Acknowledging something that’s done skillfully or with excellence.
Definition: Used to express admiration for someone’s effort or achievement.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase focuses more on the skill, effort, or quality of what has been done.
Scenario Example:
“That’s impressive! Your presentation was spot on.”
Best Use: When you want to highlight the quality or effort behind something.
Tone: Respectful, admiring, and appreciative.
4. How Amazing!
Meaning: Showing admiration and excitement for something truly remarkable.
Definition: A phrase to express awe, wonder, or approval.
Detailed Explanation: This alternative emphasizes the marvel or wonder you feel about what’s been presented.
Scenario Example:
“How amazing! You managed to get everything done ahead of schedule!”
Best Use: When reacting to something that astonishes or inspires you.
Tone: Warm, heartfelt, and appreciative.
5. That’s Epic!
Meaning: Used to describe something grand, remarkable, or legendary.
Definition: A phrase to express admiration for something larger-than-life.
Detailed Explanation: “Epic” is typically used for something that feels monumental or impressive in scale.
Scenario Example:
“That’s epic! I can’t believe how much you’ve achieved in such a short time.”
Best Use: When reacting to an outstanding achievement or an event of large significance.
Tone: Excited, enthusiastic, and energetic.
6. That’s Unbelievable!
Meaning: Expressing astonishment or disbelief.
Definition: Used to convey amazement at something surprising or unexpected.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests that what’s being discussed is so impressive or unexpected that it’s hard to accept as true.
Scenario Example:
“That’s unbelievable! I can’t believe you pulled that off so effortlessly!”
Best Use: When reacting to something surprising or highly extraordinary.
Tone: Surprised, amazed, and enthusiastic.
7. How Rad!
Meaning: A more informal, retro way of expressing excitement.
Definition: A slang term used to show that something is cool or exciting.
Detailed Explanation: This is a playful and informal alternative, often used in youth culture or to express fun.
Scenario Example:
“How rad! You got tickets to the concert?”
Best Use: When talking to friends or in a relaxed, youthful setting.
Tone: Casual, fun, and energetic.
8. That’s Fantastic!
Meaning: Expressing enthusiastic approval and excitement.
Definition: A strong, positive expression of delight and admiration.
Detailed Explanation: “Fantastic” implies something is not just good but outstanding in an almost magical way.
Scenario Example:
“That’s fantastic! You’ve outdone yourself this time.”
Best Use: Ideal for reacting to a well-executed project or a positive outcome.
Tone: Positive, encouraging, and warm.
9. That’s Dope!
Meaning: An informal and trendy way to express approval.
Definition: Slang used to describe something cool, impressive, or exciting.
Detailed Explanation: “Dope” is often used to express admiration for something stylish or impressive.
Scenario Example:
“That’s dope! I love the new design you came up with.”
Best Use: Perfect for casual settings, especially among younger crowds or in creative industries.
Tone: Casual, youthful, and enthusiastic.
10. That’s Wicked!
Meaning: A slang term meaning excellent or impressive, used mainly in the UK and Northeast US.
Definition: Another term for something exceptionally good or exciting.
Detailed Explanation: “Wicked” here is used as a positive term to express admiration or approval.
Scenario Example:
“That’s wicked! I didn’t think it could be done so quickly!”
Best Use: Ideal for informal conversations, particularly in regions where this term is popular.
Tone: Fun, enthusiastic, and casual.
11. That’s Fabulous!
Meaning: Expressing admiration for something that’s impressively good.
Definition: A refined expression of approval and delight.
Detailed Explanation: “Fabulous” indicates something that is not just good, but outstanding in a way that deserves special attention.
Scenario Example:
“That’s fabulous! You went above and beyond with this.”
Best Use: Suitable for both formal and informal settings, particularly when praising something impressive.
Tone: Polite, positive, and respectful.
12. That’s Phenomenal!
Meaning: Expressing awe at something extraordinary or remarkable.
Definition: A phrase used to show deep admiration for something outstanding.
Detailed Explanation: “Phenomenal” emphasizes the rarity and exceptional nature of what you’re commenting on.
Scenario Example:
“That’s phenomenal! Your work on this project is truly outstanding.”
Best Use: Ideal for professional settings where you want to highlight exceptional performance.
Tone: Formal, appreciative, and admiring.
13. That’s Mind-Blowing!
Meaning: Suggesting that something is so impressive it’s difficult to comprehend.
Definition: A phrase that expresses astonishment at something overwhelmingly impressive.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase often implies that what you’re seeing or hearing is so extraordinary that it causes a momentary disbelief.
Scenario Example:
“That’s mind-blowing! I didn’t think it was possible to achieve that level of detail.”
Best Use: When reacting to something that feels groundbreaking or beyond expectations.
Tone: Amazed, astonished, and enthusiastic.
14. That’s Marvelous!
Meaning: A classic and somewhat elegant way of expressing admiration.
Definition: Used to describe something truly wonderful and impressive.
Detailed Explanation: “Marvelous” suggests something that inspires wonder and appreciation.
Scenario Example:
“That’s marvelous! You’ve outdone yourself with this design.”
Best Use: When you want to convey respect and admiration in a polished manner.
Tone: Formal, warm, and complimentary.
15. That’s Unmatched!
Meaning: Indicates that something stands out in quality, surpassing others.
Definition: A way of highlighting that something is the best of its kind.
Detailed Explanation: “Unmatched” is used when you want to emphasize that no one or nothing can compare to what’s being discussed.
Scenario Example:
“That’s unmatched! No one else could have pulled that off so flawlessly.”
Best Use: When you’re reacting to something truly exceptional that surpasses others.
Tone: Admiring, confident, and appreciative.
16. That’s Extraordinary!
Meaning: Something that is beyond the ordinary, truly special.
Definition: Used to describe something that goes above and beyond expectations.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase signals that what you’re reacting to is not just good, but rare and exceptional.
Scenario Example:
“That’s extraordinary! Your attention to detail is unmatched.”
Best Use: When you want to highlight something that is out of the ordinary remarkably.
Tone: Respectful, appreciative, and enthusiastic.
17. That’s Fantastic!
Meaning: Used to express delight and admiration for something impressive.
Definition: A positive exclamation to show enthusiasm for something well done.
Detailed Explanation: “Fantastic” communicates your excitement for something that truly stands out.
Scenario Example:
“That’s fantastic! You knocked it out of the park with that presentation.”
Best Use: Ideal for praising achievements or positive outcomes.
Tone: Positive, warm, and encouraging.
18. That’s Stunning!
Meaning: Something so impressive it leaves you in awe.
Definition: A phrase that conveys admiration for something visually or conceptually striking.
Detailed Explanation: “Stunning” often refers to something that takes your breath away, either visually or emotionally.
Scenario Example:
“That’s stunning! Your photos are truly breathtaking.”
Best Use: When reacting to something visually or emotionally impactful.
Tone: Awe-struck, appreciative, and amazed.
19. That’s Brilliant!
Meaning: Used to praise something that is exceptionally clever or insightful.
Definition: A way of expressing admiration for someone’s ingenuity or idea.
Detailed Explanation: “Brilliant” suggests a level of excellence in creativity or intelligence.
Scenario Example:
“That’s brilliant! Your idea for the campaign is genius.”
Best Use: When reacting to clever ideas or exceptional solutions.
Tone: Intellectual, respectful, and enthusiastic.
20. That’s Terrific!
Meaning: Expressing enthusiasm and approval for something done well.
Definition: A phrase to express admiration and delight for something impressive.
Detailed Explanation: “Terrific” is another positive expression to show your approval of an achievement or outcome.
Scenario Example:
“That’s terrific! You’ve done an amazing job organizing the event.”
Best Use: For praising something well done, particularly in professional settings.
Tone: Positive, supportive, and appreciative.
21. That’s Fabulous!
Meaning: Another way to express admiration, often used to describe something impressive.
Definition: A slightly more refined version of “cool” to convey approval and enthusiasm.
Detailed Explanation: “Fabulous” is used to express delight, suggesting something is truly exceptional or charming.
Scenario Example:
“That’s fabulous! You’ve outdone yourself with this event!”
Best Use: When you want to show respect or admiration in a slightly more formal or elegant way.
Tone: Elegant, polite, and warm.
Read More: Other Ways to Say “Not Only” (With Examples)
22. That’s Sensational!
Meaning: Used to express excitement for something truly extraordinary.
Definition: An enthusiastic reaction to something amazing or exceptional.
Detailed Explanation: “Sensational” emphasizes a strong emotional reaction to something that exceeds expectations.
Scenario Example:
“That’s sensational! The way you handled that situation was impressive.”
Best Use: When reacting to something truly remarkable in an energetic, positive way.
Tone: Excited, amazed, and appreciative.
23. That’s Out of This World!
Meaning: Used to describe something so impressive that it feels otherworldly.
Definition: A phrase expressing astonishment and admiration for something exceptional.
Detailed Explanation: This expression suggests that what you’re commenting on is beyond ordinary limits—almost too good to be true.
Scenario Example:
“That’s out of this world! I’ve never seen such a creative approach to this problem.”
Best Use: When reacting to something that feels extraordinary or surreal.
Tone: Enthusiastic, amazed, and awe-struck.
24. That’s Jaw-Dropping!
Meaning: Indicating that something is so impressive, that it leaves you speechless.
Definition: Used to describe something shocking or awe-inspiring.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes your surprise at something that exceeds expectations.
Scenario Example:
“That’s jaw-dropping! I didn’t expect it to be that good!”
Best Use: When reacting to something shocking or unexpectedly remarkable.
Tone: Surprised, amazed, and enthusiastic.
25. That’s So Impressive!
Meaning: A simple but effective way to show admiration.
Definition: A way of expressing respect and admiration for something done skillfully or excellently.
Detailed Explanation: A straightforward phrase to praise something impressive, without being overly formal.
Scenario Example:
“That’s so impressive! Your attention to detail is remarkable.”
Best Use: Great for professional settings where you want to show respect and admiration.
Tone: Respectful, warm, and appreciative.
26. That’s Unbelievably Good!
Meaning: Expressing astonishment at something that exceeds expectations.
Definition: A phrase used to describe something so exceptional it’s hard to believe.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase adds an extra layer of emphasis to the extraordinary nature of something. It suggests that the level of achievement is almost unbelievable.
Scenario Example:
“That’s unbelievably good! I didn’t think it was possible to get this level of quality.”
Best Use: When reacting to something that’s impressively better than anticipated.
Tone: Surprised, amazed, and appreciative.
27. That’s So Cool!
Meaning: A casual, yet enthusiastic expression of approval.
Definition: A relaxed way of saying something is impressive or exciting.
Detailed Explanation: A simple, laid-back way to express that something is “cool,” but with a slightly more personal touch.
Scenario Example:
“That’s so cool! I love how you made it work.”
Best Use: Ideal for informal settings, especially with friends or colleagues.
Tone: Casual, friendly, and upbeat.
28. That’s Brilliantly Done!
Meaning: Used to praise someone’s execution of a task or idea.
Definition: A phrase that conveys admiration for someone’s cleverness or expertise.
Detailed Explanation: “Brilliantly done” acknowledges both the creativity and skill involved in a task and shows your respect for the work.
Scenario Example:
“That’s brilliantly done! The way you handled that meeting was impressive.”
Best Use: When you want to compliment someone on their execution of an idea or task.
Tone: Admiring, respectful, and appreciative.
29. That’s Blowing My Mind!
Meaning: A casual way to express amazement, often used in informal settings.
Definition: Used to show that something is so impressive it’s almost hard to comprehend.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys surprise, excitement, and awe—often with a sense of disbelief.
Scenario Example:
“That’s blowing my mind! I can’t believe how detailed this is.”
Best Use: Ideal for informal, high-energy reactions to something extraordinary.
Tone: Surprised, amazed, and excited.
30. That’s Super Cool!
Meaning: A more enthusiastic and amplified way of saying “cool.”
Definition: A fun and energetic way of expressing excitement and admiration.
Detailed Explanation: “Super cool” takes the casual expression to a higher level, emphasizing even greater enthusiasm.
Scenario Example:
“That’s super cool! I love how you managed to put everything together.”
Best Use: When you want to show extra enthusiasm, typically in a fun or casual conversation.
Tone: Enthusiastic, playful, and high-energy.
Conclusion
There are countless ways to express excitement, admiration, and awe—whether you’re reacting to a great idea, an impressive achievement, or something simply remarkable. Choosing the right phrase adds personality and depth to your response, allowing you to convey your feelings in a way that resonates with the situation and the people involved. Whether you prefer the informal charm of “how cool” or the grandeur of “that’s extraordinary,” using these alternatives gives you the tools to react with warmth, care, and enthusiasm.
The next time you’re blown away by someone’s work, idea, or achievement, don’t be afraid to use a fresh, expressive phrase from this list. You’ll not only sound more engaging but also show how much you truly appreciate what’s happening around you.
Sam Hayes is an experienced writer and grammar enthusiast with a passion for helping others master the art of effective communication. With a focus on clarity and precision, Sam’s expertise spans from editing to creating informative content that educates and engages readers.
