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Posted by on Oct 1, 2015 in TellMeWhy |

What Do You Mean by the Term Tongue in Cheek?

What Do You Mean by the Term Tongue in Cheek?

What Do You Mean by the Term Tongue in Cheek? This funny sounding expression indicates that someone just told a joke or isn’t being serious! If someone says something “tongue-in-cheek,” he or she is usually kidding.

It’s believed that this saying was created by an English humorist in the 1800s. Most people have difficulty saying anything with their tongue in their cheek.

But some people actually do stick their tongue against the inside of their cheek after saying a joke to show that they’re only kidding.

The Tongue-in-cheek figure of speech used to imply that a statement or other production is humorously or otherwise not seriously intended, and it should not be taken at face value.

The facial expression typically indicates that one is joking or making a mental effort. In the past, it may also have indicated contempt, but that is no longer common.

Content for this question contributed by Celeste Kertesz, resident of Pomona, Los Angeles County, California, USA