it's joking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it's joking" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is meant to be humorous or not taken seriously, but it is more natural to say "it's a joke" or "it's jokingly said." Example: "When he said he was going to quit his job to become a professional napper, I realized he was just joking."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Words do matter," said Kirsten Suto Seckler, director for global marketing and awareness at the Special Olympics in Washington, even when "it's joking about one's own ability level in sports".

The New York Times

(This was a hard sell since, as Patrick Healy of The Times noted, when the Clinton campaign jokes, it tells you it's joking. By yesterday the Clinton aides were running away from the story as fast as possible. Score one for Obama.

The New York Times

"But I say the Senegalese are going to win - it's joking, they're like my brothers".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But I thought it was joking, banter".

The New Yorker

It was joked about.

The New York Times

It's jokes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's joke-hop, but what does that mean?

The New Yorker

(Insert "it's not rocket science... yes it is" joke).

The Guardian - Tech

"Everybody was joking about it.

Independent

"They were joking about it.

The New Yorker

We were joking about it.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider using "it's a joke" or "it's meant as a joke" instead of "it's joking" to avoid potential ambiguity. This ensures your intention is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "it's joking" in formal writing, as it may be perceived as less polished or idiomatic. Opt for alternatives like "it's a joke" or "it's intended as humor" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's joking" functions as a commentary or explanation, indicating that a previous statement or action should be interpreted as humorous or not serious. Ludwig AI indicates that it's not the most natural way to express the idea of something being said in jest.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it's joking" is used to indicate that something is intended as humor, but Ludwig AI analysis suggests it is less common and potentially less clear than alternatives such as "it's a joke" or "it's meant as a joke". While grammatically acceptable, it is best reserved for informal contexts. In formal writing, prioritizing clarity with alternative expressions ensures effective communication. It primarily appears in news and media, with limited presence in academic or scientific sources. Therefore, consider the audience and context when choosing between "it's joking" and its more widely accepted alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a joke

Replaces the verb 'joking' with the noun 'joke', creating a more standard and direct expression.

it's meant as a joke

Clarifies the intention behind the statement, emphasizing that it should be interpreted humorously.

it's just a joke

Adds emphasis to the humorous nature of the statement, suggesting it should not be taken seriously.

it's said in jest

Uses a more formal tone to indicate that the statement was made playfully.

it's not serious

Shifts the focus to the lack of seriousness, indicating that the statement should not be taken literally.

it's all in good fun

Suggests the statement is part of a lighthearted and enjoyable exchange.

it's a playful remark

Highlights the lighthearted and teasing nature of the statement.

it's intended as humor

Specifies the purpose of the statement as being humorous.

it's not to be taken seriously

Explicitly states that the statement should not be interpreted in a literal or significant way.

it's a bit of levity

Indicates that the statement is intended to add lightness and humor to the situation.

FAQs

What does "it's joking" mean?

"It's joking" suggests that a statement is intended to be humorous or not serious. However, it's more common and clear to say "it's a joke".

Is "it's joking" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "it's joking" is less common than alternatives like "it's a joke" or "it's meant as a joke". Using the more common phrases will enhance clarity.

What are some alternatives to "it's joking"?

Consider using alternatives like "it's a joke", "it's just a joke", or "it's said in jest" for clearer communication.

When is it appropriate to use "it's joking"?

You can use "it's joking" in informal conversations. However, for formal writing or situations requiring precision, "it's a joke" or similar phrases are preferable.