Jokingly: meaning, definitions and examples

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jokingly

[ˈdʒoʊ.kɪŋ.li ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a playful or humorous manner

Jokingly means in a playful or humorous manner, often used to lighten the mood or make a lighthearted comment. It is a way of teasing or making fun of someone in a friendly and non-serious way.

Synonyms

humorously, playfully, teasingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
jokingly	When you say something not meant to be taken seriously in a lighthearted manner. She jokingly said she would marry her cat if she couldn't find a boyfriend
playfully	When you do or say something in a fun, not serious, and often affectionate way. She playfully pushed him after he made a silly joke
humorously	When you try to make others laugh by saying or doing something funny. He humorously recounted his embarrassing moment at the party
teasingly	When you make fun of someone in a gentle or playful way, but it can sometimes be taken as irritating. He teasingly called her a bookworm because she loved reading so much

Examples of usage

She jokingly told him to stop being so serious.
He jokingly suggested they should all quit and become professional gamers.
The teacher jokingly said that the homework was due in five minutes.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

characterized by joking

Describing something as jokingly means that it is characterized by joking or playful behavior. It can refer to a light-hearted atmosphere or a humorous conversation where jokes are being made.

Synonyms

humorous, playful, teasing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
jokingly	Use when making a comment or statement that is not meant to be taken seriously, often to bring lightness or laughter to a conversation. She told him jokingly that he would make a great clown. Jokingly, he said he was the best cook in the world.
playful	Ideal for describing actions, remarks, or attitudes that are lighthearted, spirited, and intended for fun, often in a friendly manner. The children were in a playful mood, running around and laughing. Her playful wink made everyone smile.
humorous	Best used to describe something that is funny or intended to make people laugh in a gentle or kind-hearted way. His humorous anecdotes always make dinner parties more enjoyable. The movie had a lot of humorous scenes that kept the audience laughing.
teasing	Used when lightly mocking or making fun of someone in a way that is meant to be friendly or affectionate, though it can sometimes be perceived as annoying or irritating if not done carefully. He was teasing his sister about her new haircut. Their teasing banter is actually a sign of their close friendship.

Examples of usage

The jokingly banter between the friends made the evening enjoyable.
Her jokingly tone eased the tension in the room.
The jokingly comments added a fun element to the conversation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word derives from 'joke', which comes from the Latin word 'jocus', meaning 'a joke or jest'.
The suffix '-ly' indicates the manner of the action, transforming 'joke' into how something is said.
The use of 'jokingly' dates back to the early 19th century, reflecting the evolving social norms around humor.

Cultural Context

Humor varies significantly across cultures; what is funny in one culture may not be in another.
In many cultures, joking is an important way to bond, relieve tension, and communicate informally.
Stand-up comedy has a special place in Western culture, often highlighting social issues in a humorous light.

Psychology

Joking can be a mechanism for coping with stress and anxiety, helping people to feel more at ease.
Research shows that humor may strengthen relationships by increasing feelings of closeness and connection.
Laughter releases endorphins, known as the body's natural feel-good chemicals, making jokes a great mood booster.

Literature

Writers often use humor and irony to deliver serious messages, engaging readers through laughter.
Classic literature, like Shakespeare’s plays, frequently features characters who speak jokingly, revealing deeper truths.
Jokes can serve as social commentary, reflecting cultural attitudes and societal norms within various literary works.

Pop Culture

TV shows and movies often use characters who speak jokingly to lighten difficult situations, making them more relatable.
Memes and internet culture have taken joking to new levels, often blending humor with social commentary.
Famous comedians have gained fame and influence by crafting a unique style of delivering jokes that resonate widely.

Translations

Translations of the word "jokingly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de brincadeira

🇮🇳 मज़ाक में

🇩🇪 scherzhaft

🇮🇩 dengan bercanda

🇺🇦 жартома

🇵🇱 żartobliwie

🇯🇵 冗談で

🇫🇷 en plaisantant

🇪🇸 en broma

🇹🇷 şaka yollu

🇰🇷 농담으로

🇸🇦 مازحاً

🇨🇿 žertem

🇸🇰 žartom

🇨🇳 开玩笑地

🇸🇮 šaljivo

🇮🇸 í gríni

🇰🇿 қалжыңдап

🇬🇪 ხუმრობით

🇦🇿 zarafatla

🇲🇽 en broma

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,273, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
24270 sanctum
24271 miscible
24272 moccasins
24273 jokingly
24274 distrustful
24275 jejunum
24276 nonviolence
...