pull someone's leg

You use this phrase after the joke is revealed. Or, you use it when you suspect someone is lying to you. It works as a question or a statement. You might say, "Are you pulling my leg?" This shows you are suspicious but not angry. It is a very common way to bond through humor.

Use it when the mood is light. It is perfect for a coffee break with coworkers. Use it when a friend tells an unbelievable story. It is great for family dinners when your uncle tells a tall tale. It works well in texting when you use a wink emoji. It is a sign of a close relationship.

Never use this for serious lies. If someone lies about a car accident, do not use it. Avoid it in high-stakes business negotiations. It is too casual for a funeral or a doctor's office. If the lie causes real pain, this phrase is too light. Don't use it if you are actually angry at the person.

This idiom has been around since the 1800s. Some say it comes from street thieves who tripped people. However, in modern times, it lost that dark meaning. Now, it is purely about British and American humor. It reflects the Western love for 'deadpan' comedy. It shows that we value people who can take a joke.

You can say "You're pulling my leg." You can also say "I'm just pulling your leg." In British English, people sometimes say "pulling my chain." Both mean the same thing. Just remember: it is always about a joke, never a physical act!