B1verbrelationships
US/dʒoʊk/
UK/dʒəʊk/
to say something funny or not serious, to make people laugh
In context
Don't worry, I was only joking about selling your bike.
My dad likes to joke that he is the best cook in the family.
The students joked with their teacher before the exam started.
Words that go with joke
verb + preposition
- joke aboutWe often joke about our terrible singing.
- joke withHe likes to joke with customers while he makes their coffee.
adverb + verb
- only jokingRelax, I'm only joking, you don't have to pay me back.
- just jokingShe said she was just joking, but nobody laughed.
verb + adverb
- joke aroundThe boys were joking around at the back of the bus.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Don't joke me, I'm serious.Correct: Stop joking, I'm serious.