[Idiom] PULLING SOMEONE'S LEG. - Explore the Fun Side of Language: Understanding Humorous Phrases
Pulling someone's leg.
/ˈpʊlɪŋ ˈsʌmwʌnz lɛɡ/
Joking or teasing someone.
Pulling someone's leg" is all about light-hearted deception, teasing, or joking. The phrase likely comes from the playful act of tripping someone as a joke without intending harm. It emphasizes the quirky, humorous side of English idioms and is useful in explaining jokes or pranks that are meant to be harmless and fun. This expression can make learning English enjoyable by showing the playful interactions that language can facilitate.
Example Sentences
I'm just pulling your leg!
The speaker indicates that what they said was just a joke and not to be taken seriously.
He didn't believe me; I was pulling his leg.
The lack of belief from 'he' comes from discovering that the speaker was joking.
Sometimes, it's hard to tell when she's serious or just pulling someone's leg.
It is difficult to determine if she is joking or being serious due to her playful way of speaking.