Someone just said “May the Fourth be with you.” Now what?

Do you grin and fire back something clever? Or do you awkwardly nod like you’ve just been handed a cryptic prophecy?

I’ve been there. One time, a colleague greeted me with it during our morning meeting. I blinked, gave them a thumbs up, and muttered something like “Cheers… Jedi?” I don’t even remember. What I do remember is the look on their face — part amusement, part pity. That was the day I decided: Never again will I be caught off guard by a space pun.

Since then, I’ve been collecting witty, casual, and even office-safe responses to the infamous line. Whether you’re a Star Wars nerd, someone who only knows Baby Yoda from memes, or just trying not to sound like a droid at work, this guide has got you.

Why People Say “May the Fourth Be With You”

Quick recap, just in case you’ve avoided pop culture for the last decade: “May the Fourth be with you” is a pun on the famous Star Wars line, “May the Force be with you.” Star Wars fans have claimed May 4th as their unofficial holiday, and even Disney now plays along with full-blown events and merchandise drops.

But even people who’ve never seen the movies love a good pun. So, this line has become a sort of social nod — part joke, part greeting, part inside handshake for nerds and normies alike.

Before You Reply: Who’s Talking and What’s the Vibe?

The trick to giving a great reply isn’t memorising a list. It’s understanding who said it, why they said it, and how playful they’re being.

Is it a friend goofing around? A co-worker trying to be light-hearted? Your mum texting it because she heard it on the radio?

Let’s break it down by scenario.You’re a Star Wars Fan: Unleash the Banter

This is your moment. Don’t waste it on “You too.”

Here are a few responses that feel fun, confident, and completely fan-approved:

• “And also with your lightsaber.”
  Sounds serious, but totally ridiculous.
• “Only if I get to fly the Millennium Falcon today.”
  Humble request. Big energy.
• “Cheers! I’ve already insulted someone in Wookiee this morning.”
  Niche, yet powerful.

I once replied to a colleague with “I sense a disturbance in our Google Calendar” and they laughed so hard they forgot we had a 2-hour meeting. Win-win.

You’re Not a Fan: Keep It Light and Honest

Let’s say you don’t know the movies, don’t care to, and aren’t into the whole space wizard thing. You can still give a solid response without pretending.

Try one of these:

• “No clue what that means, but I’m guessing I should be flattered?”
  Honest. Friendly. No fuss.
• “Is this the part where I pretend to own a lightsaber?”
  Witty self-awareness goes far.
• “I support this pun. Even if I have no idea what it’s referencing.”
  You appreciate the wordplay. That’s enough.

Remember: authenticity beats faking it every time.

You’re at Work: Keep It Playful, Not Cringe

Workplace humour is like seasoning — a little bit goes a long way. So when a co-worker drops the “May the Fourth” line, you can reply without going full Jedi robe.

Try:

• “Thanks, let’s hope the Force helps with this inbox.”
  Accurate and relatable.
• “I’m just trying not to turn to the Dark Side before lunch.”
  Everyone gets it.
• “Noted. Will avoid Sith-level sarcasm in today’s calls.”
  Bonus points if your team thrives on dry humour.

I’ve seen managers use these lines and instantly break the usual awkward morning tension. A one-liner can shift the mood more than a whole team-building workshop.

You’re Caught Off-Guard: Use It as a Chance to Ask

You don’t have to know everything. If you’re feeling lost but curious, just say so — it’s more charming than you think.

• “Alright, I’m missing the reference — can I get a crash course?”
  Works even better in a group chat.
• “So this is Star Wars-related, right? I’ve only seen one. Maybe.”
  Slightly embarrassed honesty is very likable.

People love being the one to explain something they’re into. Let them play guide.

The Psychology Behind a Great Reply

Responding well isn’t just about sounding clever. According to communication expert Dr. Emily Hope, “Every shared laugh or in-joke, even about pop culture, builds micro-trust. It’s how we signal warmth without being overly formal.”

So replying isn’t just small talk. It’s low-stakes connection. The kind that, over time, makes you more memorable, more approachable, and more you.

A Quick Tip: Make It Yours

The best responses don’t come from articles (even this one). They come from personality.

So think:

• What’s something silly you’d actually say?
• What’s your natural tone — sarcastic, dry, bubbly?
• Is there a way to link the joke to your day?

One of my friends replied with, “Cheers, I’m currently battling the dark side of my washing machine” — and it was so her.

That’s the kind of response that sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions (Real Ones)

What if I reply wrong?

There’s no quiz. Say anything friendly and you’re good. Even “You too!” works better than silence.

Do I need to have seen Star Wars?

No. You just need to appreciate the pun or be willing to smile through it.

Can I use the line first?

Absolutely. It’s even better when you surprise someone with it.

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Final Thoughts: It’s About the Moment, Not the Movie

You don’t need to know the plot of The Empire Strikes Back to respond with heart.

What matters is that you notice the moment, respond like a human, and make someone feel seen — even if it’s through a space pun on a Thursday.

So next time someone hits you with “May the Fourth be with you,” don’t panic. You’ve got options. You’ve got charm. And if all else fails?

Just grin and say, “Only if I get snacks with that.”

Let’s Hear Yours:

What’s the best (or worst) response you’ve ever given or heard? Drop your reply below. If it made someone laugh, made your day better, or completely backfired — I want to hear it.

Because words matter, even when they’re from galaxies far, far away.