English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "i can only" Mean?
Learn what "i can only" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Polite
Soft
Comfort
I can only imagine how it must make you feel, girl.
It means the speaker is showing empathy and acknowledging that the other person is probably feeling pain or distress.
From Duty Or Desire, Episode 13
When do people say this?
Scene Context
Someone responds with empathy to another person's painful situation.
Usage Scenario
Use this when you want to sound sympathetic and supportive. It is polite and safe for personal conversations, but it can sound a little formal.
Better ways to say it
1
I can only imagine how hard that must be.
2
I can only imagine what that feels like.
3
That must be really difficult for you.
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