If you have to say “just joking” after your comment, maybe it was not that funny to begin with.
In fact, it is usually a sign you knew it was going to hurt but said it anyway. The internet is full of these throwaway “jokes” that are not jokes at all, just thinly disguised insults wrapped in a smiley face.
That was exactly what Alya Aqilah experienced recently when a post she made on Instagram Story became the target of an unkind remark.
A viral post that struck a nerve
Her experience went viral after she shared a screenshot of the DM on Threads, sparking conversations about how people often mask hurtful comments as humour.
In the screenshot, an Instagram user responded to a video she had posted, belittling her appearance.
Ey, you’re so fat. Still confident enough to post a Story. Hikhik, just joking,” the person wrote.
The sting behind the “joke”
While the sender may have claimed it was all in good fun, the words left a mark. Aqilah admitted that the comment made her question herself despite her efforts to feel confident.
I have worked so hard to look good, so why is it still not perfect? What am I lacking? Even if it is just a ‘joke’… hmm…” she said.
Pay attention to insults concealed as humour
Her post struck a chord with many, prompting an outpouring of frustration towards the sender. Netizens criticised the behaviour, pointing out how easily people hide behind the “just joking” excuse.
“Seriously cannot stand people like that. They hurt others’ feelings and then hide behind the word ‘joke’,” one wrote.
Some also offered practical advice, suggesting Aqilah remove the person from her social media entirely.
“Just block them. If they ask why, tell them, ‘Just joking’,” one comment read.
Others noted that such remarks can sometimes come from people you least expect.
“Pay attention to insults concealed as humour. Your friends might be jealous and hated you. Been there,” a user shared.
Amid the backlash, there were also plenty of voices offering Aqilah encouragement and reminding her not to let the comment shake her confidence.
“Just be yourself. Do not entertain people like that. You are amazing,” one woman wrote.
