What Does Just So You Know Mean? [4 Best Alternatives]

Key Takeaways
  • "Just so you know" is a phrase used to inform someone about something they may not be aware of, but can be perceived as rude depending on delivery and context.
  • In formal settings, alternatives like "For Your Information" or "Allow Me To Clarify" are preferred over "Just so you know."
  • Pop culture and music, particularly Jesse McCartney's song "Just So You Know," have contributed to the phrase's recognition and use in everyday language.

In our day-to-day conversations, certain phrases stick out more than others. One such phrase that has captured the attention of both young and old is, “Just So You Know.”  It may seem rude at first, but most things that look intimidating also have a softer side to them.

In this article, we’ll explore the meanings of Just So You Know, investigating how it fits into our everyday conversations and its influence on pop culture and the digital world. So, get ready to level up your communication game..

What does just so you know mean?

What is the Meaning of Just So You Know?

The phrase “just so you know” means to inform someone about something. It’s a way of letting someone know about a fact or situation that they may not already be aware of.

Depending on the context, the phrase just so you know can come off as rude if said in a demeaning manner. This is true for cases where you want to look as calm as possible while still making sure the other person realizes the intensity of your POV.

For instance, you can convey how one disapproves of someone’s fashion choice by saying “I don’t like the way that jacket looks with your shirt, just so you know.” This would come off as a harsh way to point something out rather than a respectful opinion.

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Can Just So You Know Be Used Formally?

People often use “Just so you know” in casual speech and informal settings, such as when they’re with their friends or out in public. For more formal settings and work environments, you should avoid this phrase as it could make you look unprofessional or sloppy.

Is there a formal way?

Alternatives To Using Just So You Know

If you are looking for alternatives that will make your next email look a tad bit more professional or want to spice up your work vocab a little, we got your back with these alternatives.

1. For Your Information

Using the phrase “for your information” or “FYI” for people who prefer to use acronyms for everything, is a good and formal alternative for “just so you know.” Whether it is business meetings or a work email, it will have you covered for all your extra information needs.

2. Allow Me to Clarify

Allow me to clarify” is a great way to explain your point to the listener while also maintaining a formal manner throughout the conversation. It can also provide an opportunity to simplify your speech and make it easier for people to understand you.

A few alternatives to JSYK

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3. If You Weren’t Informed

The phrase “If you weren’t informed” allows you to inform others about what’s been going around. It is a straightforward and formal way to keep them in the loop and get them up to date about all the important details that they might’ve missed.

4. Keep You In The Loop

If You want to show off your business lingo the phrase “keep you in the loop” is for you. It is fluent, to the point, and will make you look like you know a thing or two about your company.

Just So You Know Vs Just To Let You Know

Yes “Just So You Know” And “Just To Let You Know” essentially mean the same thing when used in everyday speech. You could think of just to let you know as being a little more formal than just so you know.

However, don’t start using it in front of your boss or a superior employee. Instead, stick with using it in semi-formal settings or a work email to your fellow employees.

Jesse McCarteny’s Just So You Know

Pop Culture Significance of Just So You Know

Mainstream media has also used the phrase “just so you know,” alongside the song of the same name by Jesse McCartney. It tells the story of a boy who falls in love with someone else’s girlfriend. On top of that, there’s also a version released in the romantic French language.

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Wrapping Up

Just So You Know is a useful phrase for sharing information, but it’s important to use it appropriately. In casual settings, it works fine, but for formal situations, alternatives like “For Your Information” or “Allow Me To Clarify” are better choices.

FAQs

What is the meaning of so that you know?

The phrase “So that you know” informs someone about a topic they were previously unaware of. It is essentially used to give others information regarding something they didn’t know about.

What is an example of a phrase acronym?

Phrase acronyms are shortcuts used in chatting. We take the first letters of each word in a phrase to form them. Examples include ‘LOL’ for ‘laughing out loud,’ ‘FOMO’ for ‘fear of missing out,’ and ‘YOLO’ for ‘you only live once.

What is the full form of the acronym IYKYK?

The acronyms IYKYK stands for “if you know, you know.” It is often used in cases where someone makes a joke that only those familiar with the situation will understand.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hamid Murtaza


Whether it’s troubleshooting technical issues or breaking down the Internet culture, Hamid is there to make it simple for his readers. With a deep passion for writing, Hamid loves to explore different ways to convey ideas using his words. When not problem-solving, you can find him making streaks on Duolingo.