It's Just A Prank

Definition:

Used to downplay, excuse, or backtrack on an action by claiming it was intended as a joke or harmless prank

Context:

The phrase "It's just a prank" or "relax, it's just a prank bro" originated from online prank videos around 2015, where creators would use it as a defense when their pranks went too far or caused their victims to get genuinely angry. Although initially associated with malicious or dangerous pranks, the phrase has since evolved to be used ironically or sarcastically in casual situations that aren't actually pranks. For example, someone might jokingly say it after making a minor mistake or saying something silly (almost like "just kidding").

Note: despite the origins, seriously it is not cool to use it to justify or encourage mean-spirited pranks. If anything, the ironic usage actually serves to highlight the absurdity of using "It's just a prank" as an excuse for truly harmful actions.

Example:

^{(all names &
events in the following scenario have been made up)}

Esthur: “I'm gonna tell Mom you ate her last piece of cake!”

Aarun: “Chill out, it's just a prank!”

Esthur: “...”

Aarun: “...okay fine, I'll buy her a new one.”