tongue-in-cheek

USAGE SUMMARY

"tongue-in-cheek" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or statement that is not meant to be taken too seriously. For example: "The candidate's response to the question was tongue-in-cheek, but it still managed to make the audience laugh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"It's tongue-in-cheek.

The New York Times

Underneath was a tongue-in-cheek addendum.

The New York Times

The tone is studiously tongue-in-cheek.

The New York Times - Arts

He did it tongue-in-cheek.

The New Yorker

"It's intended to be tongue-in-cheek.

The New York Times

It's a tongue-in-cheek ad.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

"That's tongue in cheek".

The New York Times

Tongue in cheek, no doubt, but still.

The New York Times - Arts

Her original quote was tongue in cheek.

The New Yorker

Was that tongue in cheek?

The Guardian - Music

But it's very tongue in cheek.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tongue-in-cheek" to signal that a statement shouldn't be taken literally. It adds a layer of humor and invites the audience to understand the implied meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "tongue-in-cheek" when you want to express direct sarcasm that could be misunderstood. Ensure the context makes your playful intent clear to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tongue-in-cheek" functions primarily as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe statements, explanations, or attitudes characterized by humor, irony, or a lack of complete seriousness. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Arts

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tongue-in-cheek" is a common and useful way to describe something that isn't meant to be taken too seriously, often implying humor or irony. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It functions as an adjective, signaling that a statement or action shouldn't be interpreted literally. You'll find it most frequently in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, ensure that your audience will understand the playful intent to avoid misinterpretations. When used effectively, "tongue-in-cheek" adds a layer of humor and invites engagement with the implied meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a facetious style

Highlights the flippant quality of the statement.

with mock seriousness

Conveys a false pretense of taking something seriously.

lightheartedly sarcastic

Highlights a mild form of sarcasm.

in a jesting way

Emphasizes the joking nature of the remark.

jocularly

Describes the statement as being intended as a joke.

with a hint of irony

Specifies that the statement possesses slight and subtle irony.

with humorous intent

Focuses specifically on the intention to be funny.

in a playful manner

Indicates a light-hearted and amusing style.

not entirely serious

Underlines the lack of complete seriousness.

with a touch of levity

Implies adding a bit of humor to an otherwise serious topic.

FAQs

How can I use "tongue-in-cheek" in a sentence?

You can use "tongue-in-cheek" to describe something that is not meant to be taken seriously or is humorous. For example: "He gave a "tongue-in-cheek" explanation of the situation."

What's a good alternative to "tongue-in-cheek"?

Alternatives include "facetious", "jocular", or "bantering", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tongue-in-cheek" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "tongue-in-cheek" is often more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider alternatives that convey a similar meaning with greater precision, unless you are deliberately aiming for a humorous effect.

What does it mean when someone says something is "tongue-in-cheek"?

It means that the statement isn't meant to be taken seriously and often contains a hint of irony or humor. It signals that the speaker doesn't fully believe what they're saying or is making a joke.