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just kidding
/dʒʌst ˈkɪdɪŋ/
joking
I was just kidding when I said I'd eat a bug!
The speaker did not actually mean they would eat a bug.
informal
Used to indicate that what was just said was not serious or meant as a joke.
I'm the best chef in the world — just kidding!
The speaker is joking about being the best chef.
You're going to fail your exam — just kidding, you'll do great!
The speaker is teasing but reassuring the listener.
Commonly used in casual conversation to soften a statement that might otherwise be taken seriously.
Collocations
I was just kiddingA phrase used to clarify that a previous statement was not meant seriously.Don't take it seriously, I'm just kiddingA phrase used to reassure someone that a statement was made in jest.
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use 'just kidding'
Use 'just kidding' to signal that a statement was made in jest, especially if it could be taken seriously or be perceived as rude. It helps maintain a lighthearted tone in conversation.
Gold Rule
Avoid overusing
While 'just kidding' is useful for clarifying playful intent, overusing it may make your speech sound insincere or dismissive.
Word Origin
The phrase combines the adverb 'just' (meaning 'simply') and the present participle 'kidding' (from 'kid', meaning 'to joke or tease'). The expression emerged in the mid-20th century as a way to clarify playful or non-serious intent in conversation.
Usage Notes
'Just kidding' is typically used in spoken English and informal written communication. It is often accompanied by a playful tone or facial expression to signal that the statement was not meant to be taken literally. The phrase can also be used to downplay a potentially offensive remark.
Word Breakdown
just
simply or merely
adverbkidding
joking or teasing
verb (present participle)English Dictionary