When someone says, "I'm just kidding," it typically means that what they said before was meant as a joke or not to be taken seriously. Responding appropriately depends on the context and your relationship with the person, but here are some general ways you can respond:
Laughing along: If the joke was light-hearted and not offensive, you can respond by laughing or smiling to acknowledge that you understand it was a joke.
Acknowledging the humor: You can say something like, "Haha, got me there!" or "You really had me for a moment!"
Taking it lightly: Respond with a playful comment like, "Well, you had me worried for a second!" or "You're quite the prankster!"
Using humor: Playfully return the joke with a response of your own, but be sure not to escalate it into anything potentially hurtful or offensive.
Expressing relief: If the joke was about something serious, you can say, "Oh, phew! I was getting concerned for a moment."
Asking for clarification: If you're not sure whether they were kidding or not, you can ask with a light tone, "Wait, were you serious or just kidding?"
Avoiding negative responses: It's best not to respond defensively or angrily, even if the joke was not well-received. Keep in mind that the person likely didn't intend to offend you.
Remember, the key is to gauge the situation and the person's intentions, and respond in a way that maintains a positive and friendly atmosphere. If you feel uncomfortable with the joke, it's okay to express your feelings in a non-confrontational manner and let the person know your boundaries without being rude or aggressive.