British English
I'm not being funny but
Before saying something potentially offensive
Literal Meaning
I am not attempting to make jokes or humorous remarks
Actual Meaning
Prefacing criticism or complaint that might seem rude
Examples in Context

'I'm not being funny but that's not right.' (Translation: I'm about to criticize)

Helpful Tips
  • 1UK complaint prefix
  • 2Something critical coming
  • 3Not about humor
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
I'm being serious
No joke
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Well, excuse me
It is what it is
To be honest
Just saying