8 Common Phrases That Secretly Reveal Poor Social Skills—Do You Use Them?
4) “It’s just a joke”
If you have to explain that something is “just a joke,” chances are, it wasn’t very funny to begin with.
This phrase is often used to deflect responsibility after saying something hurtful or inappropriate. Instead of acknowledging that their words may have upset someone, the person shifts the blame onto the listener—implying that they’re too sensitive or can’t take a joke.
But a well-timed joke doesn’t need defending, and humor shouldn’t come at the expense of others.
People with strong social skills know how to read the room. They understand when a joke lands and when it doesn’t—and more importantly, they’re willing to own up to it if they’ve crossed a line.
