just kidding
I was joking
Just kidding signals that what you just said wasn't serious—a retraction, a softener, or a reveal that you were joking: I hate your new haircut. Just kidding!
Often abbreviated JK in text.
The phrase can genuinely walk back a statement, but it also provides cover for saying something you half-meant: You're kind of annoying. Just kidding... mostly.
Humorous statement seeking laughter
- prankPlayful trick on someone
- teasingPlayful, mild ridicule
- banterPlayful, teasing exchange
- jestHumorous remark or act
gag · wit · funny · laughter · amusement · lighthearted · mischief · playful
Casual conversational retraction
- backpedalingReversing one's position
- take it backWithdraw a previous statement
- walkbackReversal of stated position
- reversalComplete change of direction
disavowal · recanting · scratch that · damage control · excuse · deflection · saving face · cover-up
joke
Humorous statement seeking laughter
jest · gag · wit · funny · laughter · amusement · lighthearted · mischief · playful · quip
nevermind
Casual conversational retraction
- backpedalingReversing one's position
- take it backWithdraw a previous statement
- walkbackReversal of stated position
reversal · disavowal · recanting · scratch that · damage control · excuse · deflection · saving face · cover-up · backtracking
irony
Meaning opposite to words
tongue-in-cheek · facetiousness · derision · taunt · cynicism · jibe · sneer · dry humor · cutting · barb