When someone says, "你在跟我开玩笑吗?" in Chinese, they're expressing disbelief or surprise at something that seems too absurd or unlikely to be true. In English, there are several ways to convey this sentiment depending on the context and tone you wish to express.

A direct translation might be "Are you joking with me?" This phrase is straightforward and can be used in casual conversations when you're incredulous about something someone has said. For example, if a friend tells you they won the lottery, you might respond with, "Are you joking with me?"

Another option is "Are you pulling my leg?" This idiom means the same thing but adds a touch of humor. It's often used in friendly banter rather than serious situations. If your colleague claims they've been promoted after just one week on the job, you could say, "Are you pulling my leg?"

If you want to sound more emphatic, you can use "No way!" This exclamation conveys shock and disbelief, similar to saying "你在跟我开玩笑吧" in Chinese. Imagine hearing about an unexpected event and responding with, "No way!"

For a slightly more formal setting, consider saying, "I can't believe what I'm hearing." This statement still expresses doubt but in a more polite manner. Perhaps during a meeting where an outrageous claim is made, you might softly respond, "I can't believe what I'm hearing."

Lastly, don't forget about the phrase "You must be kidding!" Similar to the others, it shows disbelief and can be paired with expressions like "seriously?" or "are you for real?" to enhance the effect.

In summary, while there isn't a single perfect translation for "你在跟我开玩笑吗," understanding these variations will help you communicate effectively in various scenarios. Practice using them in everyday life so that when the next surprising moment arises, you'll know exactly how to react!