Abbreviations
Common texting and chat abbreviations, spelled out with clear examples.
All 3 terms in Abbreviations
Explained in plain language — tap any entry for the full meaning.
Abbreviations are shortened forms of words or phrases — the initials and clipped spellings people use to type faster in texts, chats, emails, and social posts. Instead of writing "to be honest" you'll see "tbh"; instead of "in my opinion," "IMO." They save time, but only when both people know what the letters stand for.
This page collects clear explanations of the abbreviations people look up most. Each entry tells you exactly what the letters mean, when it makes sense to use it, and shows a real example so the meaning sticks.
Looking for a different term? Explore our full library of plain-language meaning guides, or browse slang and word meanings.
Acronyms, initialisms, and shortenings
"Abbreviation" is the umbrella term, and it covers a few different types. Knowing which is which makes them easier to read out loud and easier to remember.
- Acronym — read as a single word, like "NASA" or "radar."
- Initialism — read letter by letter, like "IIRC" or "FAQ."
- Shortening — a clipped word, like "info" for information.
- Most texting abbreviations are initialisms you say one letter at a time.
When to use abbreviations (and when to skip them)
Abbreviations are perfect for quick, casual messages where speed matters and the other person knows the shorthand. In formal writing — a job application, a report, a first email to someone you don't know — it's safer to spell the full phrase out. If there's any chance the reader won't recognize it, write it in full the first time.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an abbreviation and an acronym?
An acronym is one type of abbreviation — the kind you pronounce as a word, like "NASA." All acronyms are abbreviations, but not all abbreviations are acronyms. Many, like "IIRC," are read letter by letter and are called initialisms.
Are texting abbreviations okay in professional emails?
Usually it's best to avoid them in professional writing. Spelling the phrase out reads as clearer and more polished, and it avoids confusing anyone who doesn't know the shorthand.
Do abbreviations always use capital letters?
No. Some are written in capitals (FAQ, IMO), some in lowercase (tbh, lol), and usage varies from person to person. The meaning stays the same either way.