Definition

Adverb: In a manner that is not serious; intended to be humorous or playful, not meant to be taken literally or as a statement of fact.

Usage

The adverb "jokingly" is used to describe that an action, statement, or question is done in a humorous or teasing way. It signals to the listener or reader that the speaker's intent is playful, not serious or literal. It often modifies verbs like "said," "asked," "suggested," or "referred to."

Examples

• She jokingly suggested we all move to a desert island.
• "Maybe you should be the boss," he said jokingly.
• I jokingly called him a genius when he finally fixed the printer.
• They often tease each other jokingly; it's their way of showing affection.

Advanced Usage

• To say/do something jokingly: This phrase explicitly frames an action as a joke.
  • I only said it jokingly; I didn't think he would get upset.
• Used to soften a statement: "Jokingly" can be used to deliver a criticism or pointed observation in a less harsh, more socially acceptable way.
  • "You're late again," she remarked jokingly, though everyone knew she was annoyed.

Variants and Related Words

• Joke (n/v): The core word. A thing said or done to provoke laughter; to speak or act in a playful or humorous way.
• Jocular (adj): Fond of or characterized by joking; humorous or playful.
  • He was in a jocular mood all evening.
• Jocose (adj): Playful or humorous (a more formal synonym).
• Jesting (adj/n): The act of speaking or acting in a joking manner.

Synonyms

• Facetiously: Treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor.
• In jest: In a joking manner (a more formal or idiomatic phrase).
• Playfully: In a light-hearted, fun manner.
• Teasingly: In a way that makes fun of or provokes someone playfully.
• Tongue-in-cheek: Said or done with a subtle or ironic humor, not to be taken seriously.

Antonyms

• Seriously: In a solemn or earnest manner.
• Sincerely: With genuine feeling or belief; without pretense.
• Earnestly: With sincere and intense conviction.
• Literally: In a literal manner or sense; exactly.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Just kidding / Only joking: Common spoken phrases used immediately after a statement to clarify it was meant as a joke, similar in function to "I said it jokingly."
• In fun: For amusement, not with serious intent.
  • It was all said in fun; don't take it to heart.

Adverb

1. not seriously
   • I meant it facetiously
2. in jest
   • I asked him jokingly whether he thought he could drive the Calcutta-Peshawar express