T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

You’re pulling my leg !

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) You are joking.

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

to pull someone’s leg’ means to kid, fool or trick someone. It also means to tease or make fun of someone in a playful manner.

French translation

Tu plaisantes ? Tu te moques de moi ? Tu me fais marcher !

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Examples in context

‘Nobel prize to Briton, Japanese for stem cell work

Gurdon said he first thought someone was "pulling my leg" when he got the call from the Nobel committee. He said he planned to celebrate with a drink, but expected to be back in the lab Tuesday morning and that he had no plans to retire.’

TheTandD.com, 9 Oct. 2012

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’Northcliffe member strikes gold !

A former president and captain of Northcliffe Golf Club in Shipley has scooped the ‘Golden Ball’ prize in a nationwide promotion. (...)

His prize was a customised set of Bridgestone Golf clubs, a bag and a supply of the brand’s golf balls.

“I was shocked to get a golden ball instead of a white one and thought the head pro was pulling my leg when he told me about the prize, which I’m delighted to have won,” he said.’

Telegraph & Argus, 12 Nov. 2012

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Everyday usage

Joe was just pulling your leg when he said he was going spaghetti picking. Spaghetti doesn’t really grow on trees, Sally.

Mike : I swear, last weekend I went fishing and caught a 25 pound bass !
James : Are you for real, or are you just pulling my leg ?

b) I find you very clingy.

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

c) I find you exasperating.

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.


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