Used to introduce a statement that might seem surprising, unlikely, or hard to accept. Emphasizes that something is true despite appearing improbable.
This phrase gained popularity in the early 20th century, notably through Robert Ripley's 'Believe It or Not!' franchise starting in 1918. It combines the challenge of 'believe it' with the alternative 'or not,' creating a rhetorical device that acknowledges the listener's potential skepticism while asserting truth.
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