all joking aside
Meaning(s)
1. used before you say something serious
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
I make fun of him/her, but all joking aside, he/she is a great person
Analysis
This is usually said after making a light-hearted or joking statement, but before you say something more serious or important. People might be having a conversation within the larger context of something serious, but they engage in 'small talk' or just chat about unimportant things, before focusing on a significant issue. Saying 'all joking aside' after something funny is said is a great way of changing the subject and preparing someone for switching to the serious matter.
Social Examples (Basic)
- As Brian's older brother I see it as my duty to give him a hard time, but all joking aside, he's my best friend.
- I can't wait until my children are old enough to move out! All joking aside, I am very stressed out at the moment trying to keep everything running.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- I know that I've made quips about how any idiot could do this job, but all joking aside, the staff here are nothing short of remarkable.
- Sometimes I tend to exaggerate for comic effect, but all joking aside, if we don't pull our socks up and finish this project in time, our reputation will be ruined.