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i was just kidding vs i was just joking

The phrases are both acceptable and commonplace in English. They are interchangeable and convey the same meaning. The choice between 'kidding' and 'joking' is a matter of personal preference.
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Explained by Gregg
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: March 22, 2025 • 5718 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

" i was just kidding "

This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker was not serious and was only making a joke or teasing someone.

Examples:

  • I didn't mean to upset you. I was just kidding.
  • LESSON PLAN: I WAS JUST KIDDING! OVERVIEW: Students are asked to consider the difference between good-natured teasing and bullying through ...
  • Jim:Dave's a curly headed fuck-face. Dave walks by; Jim:Oh Phil i was just kidding about Dave, he's a cool guy wit a big dick. Dave:Why thank you Jim.
  • Mar 2, 2015 ... But it does mean it's not fucking insulting for them to say “I was just kidding” if people take something as offensive. Jace Connors, on the other ...
  • Aug 15, 2010 ... I was just kidding! You're taking it the wrong way,” and so on. The hurt girl is silenced. She has learned that if she doesn't go along with the joke ...

Alternatives:

  • I was just joking
  • I was only teasing
  • I was just messing around
  • I was just pulling your leg
  • I was just having fun

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

" i was just joking "

This phrase is used to convey that the speaker was not serious and was simply making a playful or humorous remark.

Examples:

  • Don't worry, I was just joking.
  • Aug 2, 2017 ... When I confronted her, her defense was, “I was just joking.” This week, I saw Sarah Huckabee Sanders on television say that Trump was just ...
  • Nov 18, 2022 ... ... I was just joking" in an apologetic way", probably). "OK, well I'd rather we joke about other things, okay?" or something that symbolizes ...
  • Jan 20, 2023 ... I started confronting her and she would say, “I was just joking; lighten up”. I would reply, in a soft & patient “motherly” tone: “A joke is ...
  • Aug 1, 2024 ... Someone just said, "I was just joking" after insulting you. Here's how to confront their behavior confidently, without losing your cool.
  • Told em I was just joking about takin them to Chuck-E-Cheese after church. Lol! Gotta watch my back today.
  • Sep 5, 2024 ... scott_m_coley Hey you guys, I was just joking around here. I think some of these comments are just the usual overplayed outrage.
  • Feb 22, 2023 ... ... I was just joking with her because it's kind of surreal. Next time, you see her in Vogue she'll be on the cover Sidenote: I might do a ...

Alternatives:

  • I was just kidding
  • I was only teasing
  • I was just messing around
  • I was just pulling your leg
  • I was just having fun

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