Tongue-in-cheek.
English
idiom
Refers to a humorous or sarcastic statement expressed in a serious manner.
Trusted by1.5M+English learners & teachers worldwide
Refers to a humorous or sarcastic statement expressed in a serious manner.
Trusted by1.5M+English learners & teachers worldwide
Said or done in a way that is not entirely serious — humorous, ironic, or playfully sarcastic.
When something is tongue-in-cheek, it looks or sounds like it could be sincere but is actually meant as a joke or a light-hearted comment.
It is used when someone is being witty or ironic without stating it directly.
"Sarcastic"
—
Saying the opposite of what you mean with a sharp or mocking tone, often to criticize
"Dry Humor"
—
Humor delivered in a deadpan, emotionless way that makes the joke funnier by contrast
"Tongue-in-cheek"
—
A playfully ironic or humorous remark not meant to be taken completely seriously
Did you seriously just suggest we solve the problem by ignoring it?
That was entirely tongue-in-cheek — though it is tempting.
Are you being serious about the four-day work week proposal?
Mostly tongue-in-cheek — but I thought it would get a reaction in the meeting.
You said that so seriously I wasn't sure if you were joking.
Completely tongue-in-cheek — I thought the delivery made it obvious.
