Ever received a message that says “BRB” or “LOL” and had no idea what it meant?
Texting in English often includes short forms and abbreviations like “OMG,” “IDK,” or “JK.” These save time, but if you don’t know them, they can be confusing!
These text abbreviations will help you read messages, understand friends better, and feel more confident texting in English!
What is an abbreviation?
When you’re texting a friend or sending a quick message, you don’t always have time to type out every word. That’s why people use abbreviations: short forms of words or phrases. They’re faster, easier, and super common in everyday texting, especially when you’re on the go.
Photo by Jonas Leupe on UnsplashSome abbreviations are just how we speak
Many abbreviations copy how people talk. These make the message feel casual and friendly! For example:
u = you
r = are
pls = please
thx = thanks
k = okay
Some use the first letters of each word
Lots of abbreviations come from the first letters of each word in a phrase. They help you say more with less and still sound fun or expressive. These are everywhere in texting:
LOL = laugh out loud (when something is funny) 😂
BRB = be right back 🏃🏻
FYI = for your information ℹ️
IMO = in my opinion 🤔
OMG = oh my god (for surprise or shock) 😮
IDK = I don’t know 😵💫
BTW = by the way 💁🏽♀️
JK = just kidding 🫣
Use them to share time and updates
Some abbreviations are helpful when you’re making plans or giving updates. These are great for being quick but clear.
ETA = estimated time of arrival 📍
OMW = on my way 🚗
ASAP = as soon as possible 🚨
EOD = end of day 😮💨
LMK = let me know 🙋🏽
Some show personality or emotion
Abbreviations aren’t just for saving time. They can also show how you feel. Here are a few fun ones:
ILY = I love you ♥️
used to show affection
FTW = For The Win 🙌🏼
when you’re excited or happy
GG = good game 🤝
used after playing a game, win or lose, to show good sportsmanship
GOAT = greatest of all time 🏆
used to describe someone who’s the best at something
AKA = also known as 🟰
to explain a person's other name or nickname
How to use abbreviations
You can use abbreviations in casual messages to save time and sound more natural, especially when texting friends or chatting online.
Use them at the end of a sentence:
Example: I’ll be there ASAP.
Translation: I’ll be there as soon as possible.
Use them on their own as a reply:
Example:
A: "Where did you go?"
B: "BRB!"
Use them to add emotion or tone:
Example: OMG, that video was hilarious!
Quiz
Ava: "I’m leaving now. When are you leaving?" What’s the best response? Choose all that apply:
Take Action
Use these steps to start using abbreviations with confidence:
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