Texting slang: what these abbreviations mean

A short way to write about, often in casual notes.

Example: I'll text you ab dinner later.

Asks for something promptly, without a hard deadline.

Example: Can you call me ASAP?

Means by now, or given where things stand.

Example: ATP I'm just going to stay home.

The person is stepping away briefly and expects to return soon.

Example: BRB, doorbell.

Adds a side note or a related thought.

Example: BTW, the appointment is at 3.

Reassures the other person that something is fine.

Example: DW, I already locked the door.

Emphasizes that you mean it, or asks whether someone is serious. Doubling it ("fr fr") adds extra emphasis.

Example: That movie was so good, fr.

A casual yes or strong agreement.

Example: Want coffee tomorrow? FS.

Shares a fact the other person may want to know. Common in both casual and work messages.

Example: FYI, the store closes at 6.

Signals that the person needs to end the chat for now.

Example: GTG, talk later.

Means "message me" or "get in touch" when you are free.

Example: HMU when you get off work.

Says the choice does not matter much to the writer. Tone can be casual or blunt depending on context.

Example: IDC where we eat.

A quick admission that the person does not have the answer.

Example: IDK what time the movie starts.

Shows strong agreement, as if saying "exactly."

Example: That line at the store was wild. IKR.

Marks the next line as a personal view, not a hard fact.

Example: IMO the first season is better.

Hints at a shared joke or inside reference. The writer is not explaining it for everyone.

Example: That diner on Main St., IYKYK.

Marks the previous line as a joke, not meant seriously.

Example: I'm never texting you again. JK.

Shows strong amusement. Like "lol," it can also soften a message or sound sarcastic, so read the whole text.

Example: I just waved at a stranger thinking it was you, LMAO.

Asks for an update or a decision when the other person has one.

Example: LMK when you get home.

Originally meant something was funny. Today it often softens a message or shows friendliness, even when nobody is laughing out loud.

Example: I almost sent that to the wrong person, lol.

Introduces a candid admission, similar to "to be honest."

Example: NGL, I forgot we had plans.

A friendly reply after thanks, or a way to say something is fine.

Example: Thanks for the ride. NP!

Cancels or drops the previous request or question.

Example: Can you bring milk? NVM, I found some.

Shows surprise, excitement, or disbelief. Often written in lowercase.

Example: OMG you won't believe who I saw.

Means the person has left or is leaving and is heading there.

Example: OMW, be there in 10.

Means "at this moment."

Example: I'm busy RN, call you later.

Shows disappointment, disbelief, or mild frustration.

Example: They canceled again. SMH.

Signals a more direct or candid opinion is coming.

Example: TBH I liked the quieter restaurant better.

Often starts a relatable moment or caption. You may also see it with a photo or meme.

Example: TFW you find parking on the first try.

Labels a short summary of a longer message or article. It is not always an insult; people often use it to help busy readers.

Example: TLDR: meeting moved to Thursday.

A casual goodbye that promises to continue later.

Example: Heading into the store, TTYL.

A casual greeting, similar to "what's up?" or "how are you?"

Example: Wsg? Free later?

Usually asks what the plan is. Less often it can mean "what's the matter?" Context from the chat usually makes it clear.

Example: WTM tonight?

Asks where someone is, or whether they are nearby and free to meet.

Example: WYA? We're by the entrance.

Asks what someone is up to right now.

Example: Wyd? Want to grab lunch?

Usually asks what someone needs or wants. In introductions it can also mean "what's your name?" Judge from the rest of the message.

Example: I'm at the store. WYN?