"Joking" vs. "kidding": what's the real difference?

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem Today, 20:18

English.me team member

Joking and kidding. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "joking" and "kidding" refer to making humorous or lighthearted remarks that are not meant to be taken seriously. They often indicate that what was said is intended to be funny or playful rather than literal.

What is different?

"Joking" can refer more broadly to telling jokes or being humorous, while "kidding" usually emphasizes teasing or playfully tricking someone. "Kidding" is often used informally in conversation, whereas "joking" can also be used in more formal contexts.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Joking

He was just joking about quitting his job.
Are you joking, or are you serious?
She likes joking with her friends at lunch.

Kidding

I'm just kidding—you didn’t actually offend me.
Are you kidding me? That can’t be true!
You must be kidding if you think I’ll wake up at 5 AM.