With your tongue in your cheek

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idiom

To say something but not mean it, often humorously or sarcastically.

He said he loved doing housework, but he said it with his tongue in his cheek.
Visual representation of "with your tongue in your cheek" - To say something but not mean it, often humorously or sarcastically

Often appears as...

  • say something with your tongue in your cheek
  • he's tongue in cheek

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "with your tongue in your cheek"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Literal

Understand that this phrase means the speaker doesn't literally have their tongue in their cheek.

Illustration for Not Literal
When he said he could eat a horse, he was speaking with his tongue in his cheek.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Playful Sarcasm

This phrase is often used in a playful or joking way, not to offend.

Illustration for Playful Sarcasm
She said, 'Sure, I'm a morning person,' with her tongue in her cheek.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Warning

Be aware that some people might not catch the humorous intent and take the words at face value.

Illustration for Subtle Warning
Telling his boss he'd work all weekend, with his tongue in his cheek, wasn't understood.
Visual representation of the word "With your tongue in your cheek"

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