This is the 1123rd most frequent Japanese word.
まさか
"まさか" means "No way!" or "Impossible!" and expresses surprise, disbelief, or doubt.
In this sentence, 'まさか' is used to express disbelief, often preceding unexpected outcomes or information.
まさか、そんなことが起きるとは思っていませんでした。
I never thought such a thing would happen.
Here, 'まさか' indicates astonishment, emphasizing the surprising nature of the event.
まさか彼がその試験に合格するとは!
Is it possible that he passed that exam?!
In this example, 'まさか' conveys disbelief or doubt in the reality of the situation.