# I just work here

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/i-just-work-here
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Indicates that the speaker cannot answer their interrogator's question, because of lack of experience with or knowledge on the topic.

## Examples

- Don't ask me about the new rules; I just work here.
- When the customer demanded to know why the store policy changed, the clerk simply replied that I just work here.
- Faced with the angry board members, the junior assistant offered no explanation for the budget cuts, stating only that I just work here.

## Origin

The phrase emerged as *I only work here* and has been attested in the English lexicon since at least the 1950s.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.