iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Text message shorthand is shortened wording used in texts and other informal digital conversations. If you see an unfamiliar abbreviation, use the surrounding message and your relationship with the sender to work out its meaning; the letters alone may not be enough.
What is text message shorthand?
It is a way of shortening words or phrases in a text message. People also use it in informal digital conversations. You may hear these forms called texting abbreviations or, less precisely, acronyms. Technically, an acronym is a particular kind of abbreviation, but everyday usage often groups several kinds of shorthand together.
For US audiences, Microsoft’s style guide recommends “text” or “text message” rather than “SMS” or “MMS.” Its guidance, last updated June 24, 2022, says: “Use text or text message rather than SMS (short message service) or MMS (multimedia messaging service) for the US audience.” Terminology may differ in other markets.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What do common text abbreviations mean?
These examples show several familiar forms, but they are not a complete or universal dictionary.
#1 Best Overall
| Shorthand | Meaning | How it is formed or used |
|---|---|---|
| LOL | Laugh out loud | Initials; often a casual reaction |
| BRB | Be right back | Initials; signals a short pause |
| BTW | By the way | Initials; introduces additional information |
| IDK | I don’t know | Initials |
| GR8 | Great | Sound-based spelling, using a number for a sound |
Shorthand can be made from initials, shortened spellings such as removing vowels, or sound-based spellings. The same letters can also mean different things in different communities or conversations.
How can you figure out an unfamiliar abbreviation?
- Read the whole message. The words before and after the abbreviation may clarify whether it is a reaction, a pause, or an aside.
- Consider who sent it. Friends, family, coworkers, and members of particular communities may use different shorthand.
- Check whether your interpretation fits. If more than one meaning seems possible, do not treat your first guess as certain.
- Ask the sender. A quick “What do you mean by that?” is safer than acting on a guess when the meaning matters.
When should you use text shorthand?
Use it in casual exchanges when the other person is likely to recognize the form and it suits the tone. Spell out unfamiliar or potentially ambiguous wording in professional, customer-facing, or audience-sensitive communication. The William & Mary Writing Resources Center advises against casual shorthand in professional situations such as interviews or emails with professors; a practical test is whether a reader might have to pause to decode it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #2
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Casual conversation: familiar shorthand can keep a message brief when both people understand it.
- Professional communication: write the full phrase when clarity or tone matters, especially with someone you do not know well.
- Uncertain meaning: clarify rather than assume the recipient shares the same interpretation.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
