200 Popular Text Abbreviations You Should Know - With Examples

 

Let's face it, texting without abbreviations is like a pizza without cheese: bland, basic, and nowhere near as good. 

The days are gone when people wrote full sentences in texts, complete with capital letters, punctuation, and an over-the-top politeness. Nowadays? Ain’t nobody got time for that! 

With abbreviations taking over our messaging culture, it’s become crucial to understand this shorthand language, especially if you don’t want to be left scratching your head every time someone drops a SMH or LMK in the group chat.

In this blog, I'm taking you on a guided tour through the world of text abbreviations – 200 of them, in fact! 

This list is packed with everything from classics like LOL and BRB to trendier, newer abbreviations you might see all over social media. 

I have grouped them into about 21 different categories - the common abbreviations, funny and casual abbreviations, relationship, social media, and pop culture text abbreviations etc.

Stick around, and by the end, you’ll be texting like a pro (or at the very least, understanding what on earth everyone else is saying).

What are text abbreviations? 

Text abbreviations are shortened forms of words or phrases commonly used in texting, online messaging, or social media communication. 

They serve to make communication quicker and more efficient, especially when typing on mobile devices or in informal conversations. 

These abbreviations often replace longer phrases, words, or expressions to save time and effort.

For example:

- LOL stands for "Laughing Out Loud."

- BRB stands for "Be Right Back."

- OMG stands for "Oh My God."

The use of text abbreviations has become a widespread norm, especially among younger generations. 

They often emerge from the need for speed and convenience in digital communication and can vary depending on culture, platform, or even individual preferences. 

They help convey emotions, actions, or thoughts more succinctly, making them an essential part of modern digital language.

200 Popular Text Abbreviations You Should Know 

1. Most Common Text Abbreviations

These are the common abbreviations everyone should know. They’re perfect for quick chats, whether you’re checking in with a friend or just sending a light-hearted response.

1. LOL - Laughing out loud
   Example: “That joke? LOL, it was hilarious!”

2. BRB - Be right back
   Example: “BRB, gotta grab some snacks.”

3. OMG - Oh my God
   Example: “OMG, did you hear what happened at the party?”

4. TTYL - Talk to you later
   Example: “I’m heading out, TTYL!”

5. ASAP - As soon as possible
   Example: “Please send that report ASAP.”

6. FYI - For your information
   Example: “FYI, we’re meeting at 7 p.m. now.”

7. IDK - I don’t know
   Example: “IDK if I can make it to the event.”

8. BTW - By the way
   Example: “BTW, I finally tried that sushi place!”

9. IMO - In my opinion
   Example: “IMO, that movie was a solid 9/10.”

10. SMH - Shaking my head
    Example: “They forgot my order again. SMH.”

2. Funny & Casual Abbreviations

Here’s where the fun begins. These are the abbreviations you bring out when you want to keep things light-hearted, whether you’re sharing a meme or reacting to your friend’s latest dating disaster.

11. ROFL - Rolling on the floor laughing
    Example: “That story was so funny, I’m ROFL.”

12. LMAO - Laughing my ass off
    Example: “He slipped in front of everyone! LMAO.”

13. JK - Just kidding
    Example: “I’m moving to Mars… JK, but I wish I could!”

14. YOLO - You only live once
    Example: “I ordered the extra-large fries. YOLO!”

15. TMI - Too much information
    Example: “Ew, TMI – I did not need to know that!”

16. FOMO - Fear of missing out
    Example: “I can’t skip the concert. FOMO is real!”

17. LOLZ - Laughing out loud (with a twist)
    Example: “Your cat videos give me major LOLZ.”

18. STFU - Shut the f*ck up
    Example: “STFU, there’s no way that actually happened.”

19. OMFG - Oh my f***ing God
    Example: “OMFG, that surprise was epic!”

20. ZZZ - Sleeping
    Example: “Can we not talk about work now? ZZZ…”

Discover: 200 popular Internet Slangs of 2024  With Meanings and Examples 

3. Quick Responses and Short Replies

Sometimes, less is more. These abbreviations allow you to reply quickly and effortlessly, whether you're too busy or simply trying to end the conversation.

21. K - Okay
    Example: “K, see you soon.”

22. YW - You’re welcome
    Example: “Thanks for the help!” “YW!”

23. NVM - Never mind
    Example: “Actually, NVM. I figured it out.”

24. GG - Good game
    Example: “GG! You almost had me there.”

25. TY - Thank you
    Example: “TY for sending over the notes.”

26. LMK - Let me know
    Example: “LMK if you’re free this weekend.”

27. IDC - I don’t care
    Example: “What should we eat?” “IDC, anything works.”

28. CYA - See ya
    Example: “Alright, CYA tomorrow!”

29. BBL - Be back later
    Example: “BBL, just grabbing some lunch.”

30. B4N - Bye for now
    Example: “I gotta run. B4N!”

4. Professional or Formal Abbreviations

Not all abbreviations are for goofing around. These ones are especially helpful in workplace communication where brevity is key but you still want to sound professional.

31. FYI - For your information
    Example: “FYI, the meeting has been rescheduled.”

32. ASAP - As soon as possible
    Example: “Please send over the report ASAP.”

33. TBA - To be announced
    Example: “The speaker for the event is still TBA.”

34. TBD - To be determined
    Example: “The project deadline is TBD.”

35. ETA - Estimated time of arrival
    Example: “What’s your ETA?”

36. EOD - End of day
    Example: “Can you send it to me by EOD?”

37. FWIW - For what it’s worth
    Example: “FWIW, I think this idea has potential.”

38. BTW - By the way
    Example: “BTW, did you get my email?”

39. LMK - Let me know
    Example: “LMK if you need any more details.”

40. OTW - On the way
    Example: “I’m OTW to the office now.”

5. Social Media & Pop Culture Abbreviations

Social media has its own set of abbreviations that can be a bit of a puzzle if you’re not in the know. Here are the key players in social shorthand.

41. TL;DR - Too long; didn’t read
    Example: “Here’s the TL;DR on that long email I just sent.”

42. AMA - Ask me anything
    Example: “I’m doing an AMA about my new book!”

43. TBT - Throwback Thursday
    Example: “TBT to last summer’s beach trip.”

44. FBF - Flashback Friday
    Example: “FBF to when I met my favorite band!”

45. OOTD - Outfit of the day
    Example: “My OOTD for the big event!”

46. POV - Point of view
    Example: “POV: When you realize it’s the weekend.”

47. QOTD - Quote of the day
    Example: “Here’s my QOTD: ‘Be yourself; everyone else is taken.’”

48. GOAT - Greatest of all time
    Example: “That was the GOAT concert, hands down.”

49. HMU - Hit me up
    Example: “HMU if you’re free to hang out later.”

50. MFW - My face when
    Example: “MFW I realized it was a three-day weekend!”

6. Relationship & Friendship Abbreviations

Texting has its own language of love, friendship, and connection. Use these abbreviations to show you care… or at least to keep in touch without typing out full sentences.

51. BFF - Best friends forever
    Example: “Love ya, BFF!”

52. SO - Significant other
    Example: “My SO surprised me with dinner tonight!”

53. BAE - Before anyone else
    Example: “Date night with my BAE.”

54. LDR - Long-distance relationship
    Example: “LDRs are tough but worth it.”

55. HBD - Happy birthday
    Example: “HBD! Hope you have a fantastic day!”

56. MCM - Man crush Monday
    Example: “My MCM – love you, babe!”

57. S/O - Shoutout
    Example: “Big S/O to everyone who helped me!”

58. SIS - Sister (or best friend)
    Example: “SIS! Guess who got the job!”

59. LYLAS - Love you like a sister
    Example: “You’re my person. LYLAS!”

60. XOXO - Hugs and kisses
    Example: “Miss you already! XOXO.”

7. Emotional & Expressive Abbreviations

Emotions can be tough to express over text, but these abbreviations make it a little easier.

61. SMH - Shaking my head
    Example: “They forgot my order again. SMH.”

62. SMDH - Shaking my damn head
    Example: “SMDH, they still don’t get it.”

63. IMHO - In my humble opinion
    Example: “IMHO, that movie was a bit overrated.”

64. IRL - In real life
    Example: “We should hang out IRL sometime.”

65. IKR - I know, right?
    Example: “IKR! That’s exactly how I felt.”

66. RN - Right now
    Example: “I’m so sleepy RN.”

67. TBH - To be honest
    Example: “TBH, I was nervous at first.”

68. NGL - Not gonna lie
    Example: “NGL, I thought it was a bad idea at first.”

69. AFK - Away from keyboard
    Example: “AFK for a bit, need a coffee break.”

70. RIP - Rest in peace
    Example: “RIP to my weekend plans.”

8. Throwback and Trendy Abbreviations

While some abbreviations may be older, they’re still pretty solid picks if you want to throw it back.

71. BFFL - Best friends for life
    Example: “Forever my BFFL.”

72. TTYL - Talk to you later
    Example: “Gotta go, TTYL!”

73. BRB - Be right back
    Example: “BRB, grabbing a snack.”

74. FOMO - Fear of missing out
    Example: “I just had to join in. FOMO is real.”

75. LOL - Laugh out loud
    Example: “Haha, LOL! You’re too funny.”

9. Travel & Location Abbreviations

Traveling or planning to meet up? These abbreviations are super handy when discussing locations, plans, or just trying to figure out where you’re headed.

76. ETA - Estimated time of arrival
    Example: “What’s your ETA? I’m already here.”

77. OTW - On the way
    Example: “Running a little late, but I’m OTW!”

78. ATM - At the moment
    Example: “ATM, I’m still stuck in traffic.”

79. TMI - Too much information
    Example: “Whoa, TMI! I didn’t need all those details.”

80. GTG - Got to go
    Example: “This was fun, but GTG. Catch you later!”

81. AFK - Away from keyboard
    Example: “AFK for a sec to grab some water.”

82. DM - Direct message
    Example: “DM me the address so I don’t lose it!”

83. IG - Instagram
    Example: “Found a cool café; I’ll post it on IG!”

84. NSFW - Not safe for work
    Example: “Watch out – this video is totally NSFW!”

85. PTO - Paid time off
    Example: “I’ll be out of office – using up some PTO!”

10. Health & Fitness Abbreviations

For fitness fanatics and health-conscious texters, these abbreviations cover a lot of ground. Perfect for sharing workout stats, discussing meals, or just catching up with a gym buddy.

86. GYM - Gym (yes, it’s a classic, but still useful!)
    Example: “Just finished an intense session at the GYM.”

87. BMI - Body Mass Index
    Example: “I just calculated my BMI for the month.”

88. WOD - Workout of the day
    Example: “Today’s WOD was intense – so sore already!”

89. PB - Personal best
    Example: “I set a new PB for my 5k run!”

90. PR - Personal record
    Example: “Hit a new PR on my deadlift today!”

91. RM - Rep max
    Example: “I tried for my 1RM on bench press.”

92. AMRAP - As many reps as possible
    Example: “Today’s AMRAP almost wiped me out.”

93. HIIT - High-intensity interval training
    Example: “I prefer HIIT workouts – they’re quick but effective!”

94. CICO - Calories in, calories out
    Example: “Following a CICO diet to stay on track.”

95. FYF - Fuel your fitness
    Example: “Remember, FYF – food is fuel!”

11. Internet & Gaming Abbreviations

From casual gamers to internet pros, these abbreviations are essential if you’re spending time online or gaming. They’re commonly used in forums, streaming chats, and gaming platforms.

96. GG - Good game
    Example: “GG everyone, that was intense!”

97. GLHF - Good luck, have fun
    Example: “Starting a new round! GLHF!”

98. NPC - Non-playable character
    Example: “Got stuck behind an NPC in the game.”

99. AFK - Away from keyboard
    Example: “AFK for a bit to grab a snack.”

100. BRB - Be right back
     Example: “BRB, gotta let the dog out.”

101. PWN - To dominate (comes from “own”)
     Example: “I totally PWN’d that level!”

102. FTW - For the win
     Example: “Pizza FTW after a long day!”

103. AF - As f*** (intensifier)
     Example: “That level was hard AF.”

104. GGWP - Good game, well played
     Example: “GGWP! You were awesome.”

105. TLDR - Too long; didn’t read
     Example: “The forum post was a lot, so here’s the TLDR.”

Pog is yet another interesting and widely used gaming slangs of all time. Care to know what it means? 

12. Other Abbreviation Form

Even emojis have their shorthand in the text world! Here are some common ones that work as symbols to express emotions or actions.

106. IDC - I don’t care:  Example: “IDC what movie we watch tonight!”

107. TTYT - Talk to you tomorrow Example: “It’s getting late. TTYT!” Laughing face

108. FBO - Facebook official  Example:“They finally made it FBO. Congrats to them!”

109. - WBU - What about you? Example: “I’m grabbing dinner. WBU?

106. - PPL - People - Example: “Need more PPL at the meeting for sure.”

106. ”QFT - Quoted for truth Example: “Best advice I’ve read all day: ‘Stay true to yourself.’ QFT.” 

107. OMDB - Over my dead body - Example: “OMDB am I going skydiving with you!”

108. TL - Timeline (often used on social media) Example: “My TL is full of news updates today. 

109. MCM - Man Crush Monday - Example: “Posting my MCM – gotta show him some love!”
110. PM - Private message - Example: “PM me the details.”

13. Work & Business Abbreviations

In a professional setting, these abbreviations are useful for emails, texts, and chats where efficiency matters but maintaining a business tone is also key.

116. CEO - Chief Executive Officer
     Example: “The CEO just announced the big change.”

117. CFO - Chief Financial Officer
     Example: “The CFO is discussing next quarter’s budget.”

118. B2B - Business to business
     Example: “Our company is expanding its B2B services.”

119. B2C - Business to consumer
     Example: “We’re exploring new B2C strategies.”

120. ROI - Return on investment
     Example: “We’re seeing strong ROI from the campaign.”

121. HR - Human Resources
     Example: “Reach out to HR for any benefits questions.”

122. PR - Public relations
     Example: “Our PR team handled that crisis perfectly.”

123. POC - Point of contact
     Example: “She’s the POC for any client issues.”

124. KPI - Key performance indicator
     Example: “We met all KPIs for the quarter!”

125. ETA - Estimated time of arrival
     Example: “What’s the ETA on the project?”

14. Financial & Money-Related Abbreviations

When it comes to money, these abbreviations will keep your finance game on point, whether you’re budgeting, investing, or just splitting the bill with friends.

126. ROI - Return on investment
     Example: “Checking out the ROI on those new stocks.”

127. APR - Annual percentage rate
     Example: “The APR on that credit card is too high.”

128. ATM - At the moment (or automatic teller machine)
     Example: “I’m headed to the ATM for some cash.”

129. IPO - Initial public offering
     Example: “That company is going public with its IPO soon.”

130. CAGR - Compound annual growth rate
     Example: “Our investment’s CAGR is impressive!”

131. BEP - Break-even point
     Example: “Our sales finally reached the BEP.”

132. NPV - Net present value
     Example: “Considering NPV is essential for long-term projects.”

133. P2P - Peer-to-peer
     Example: “I prefer P2P payments over carrying cash.”

134. YTD - Year to date
     Example: “Check our YTD performance for insights.”

135. USD - United States Dollar
     Example: “Converted my earnings to USD for simplicity.”

15. Creative Abbreviations for Content Creators

If you’re in the world of content creation, these abbreviations are essentials to know for marketing, social media, and keeping up with the latest trends.

136. SEO - Search engine optimization
     Example: “I need to improve SEO on my blog.”

137. CTA - Call to action
     Example: “Adding a clear CTA boosted engagement.”

138. CTR - Click-through rate
     Example: “The CTR on our latest ad was off the charts!”

139. PPC - Pay per click
     Example: “Our PPC ads brought a lot of new customers.”

140. SMM - Social media marketing
     Example: “I’m diving into SMM for brand growth.”

141. UGC - User-generated content
     Example: “UGC helps build trust with audiences.”

142. A/B - A/B testing (split testing)
     Example: “We did an A/B test on subject lines.”

143. ROI - Return on investment
     Example: “The ROI on content is worth the effort.”

144. BTS - Behind the scenes
     Example: “Posting some BTS content from today’s shoot.”

145. SOV - Share of voice
     Example: “Our SOV in the industry is increasing.”

16. Education & Learning Abbreviations

For students or lifelong learners, knowing these terms makes communication with peers or navigating academic platforms a breeze.

146. GPA - Grade point average
     Example: “I’m aiming for a higher GPA this semester.”

147. MOOC - Massive open online course
     Example: “I enrolled in a MOOC for digital marketing.”

148. K12 - Kindergarten to 12th grade
     Example: “The new policies affect all K12 schools.”

149. STEM - Science, technology, engineering, and math
     Example: “I’m pursuing a STEM field for college.”

150. PhD - Doctor of Philosophy
     Example: “She’s working towards her PhD in physics.”

17. Relationship & Family Abbreviations

These abbreviations help you talk about relationships, friendships, and family dynamics, whether you're sharing news about loved ones or navigating social situations.

151. SO - Significant other
     Example: “My SO and I are planning a weekend getaway.”

152. MIL - Mother-in-law
     Example: “I’m meeting my MIL for lunch!”

153. SIL - Sister-in-law
     Example: “My SIL threw an amazing party last night.”

154. BFF - Best friends forever
     Example: “Can’t wait to see my BFF this weekend!”

155. FAM - Family
     Example: “Heading out for a BBQ with the FAM.”

156. GF - Girlfriend
     Example: “Going out for dinner with my GF tonight.”

157. BF - Boyfriend
     Example: “My BF surprised me with concert tickets!”

158. NS - No strings (often means casual)
     Example: “Just a coffee date, NS attached.”

159. EX - Ex-partner
     Example: “Ran into my EX at the grocery store.”

160. ILY - I love you
     Example: “Just wanted to say… ILY ❤️”

18. Fun & Casual Expressions

These abbreviations are lighthearted, often adding personality and fun to casual chats. Use them to spice up conversations with humor or enthusiasm.

161. LOL - Laughing out loud
     Example: “LOL, that video had me rolling!”

162. LMAO - Laughing my a** off
     Example: “LMAO, I can’t believe you did that!”

163. ROFL - Rolling on the floor laughing
     Example: “ROFL, that joke was epic.”

164. ILYSM - I love you so much
     Example: “You’re the best friend ever! ILYSM!”

165. YOLO - You only live once
     Example: “Let’s try it – YOLO!”

166. BRB - Be right back
     Example: “Hold on, BRB – I need to grab my charger.”

167. TBT - Throwback Thursday
     Example: “Here’s a TBT pic from our last trip!”

168. SMH - Shaking my head
     Example: “You did what? SMH.”

169. FWIW - For what it’s worth
     Example: “FWIW, I think you did the right thing.”

170. IMHO - In my humble opinion
     Example: “IMHO, that movie deserved an Oscar!”

19. Social Media Abbreviations

Social media lingo has become a language of its own, with these abbreviations essential for staying current on platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

171. FYP - For you page
     Example: “That dance trend is all over my FYP!”

172. OOTD - Outfit of the day
     Example: “Feeling this look – OOTD post coming soon!”

173. BTW - By the way
     Example: “BTW, did you see that trending meme?”

174. ICYMI - In case you missed it
     Example: “ICYMI, here’s a recap of last night’s event.”

175. AMA - Ask me anything
     Example: “Doing an AMA at 8pm – drop your questions!”

176. SFW - Safe for work
     Example: “This video is funny and totally SFW.”

177. TBH - To be honest
     Example: “TBH, I wasn’t expecting it to be that good!”

178. LFL - Like for like
     Example: “LFL anyone? Let’s boost each other!”

179. IRL - In real life
     Example: “Would love to hang out IRL sometime!”

180. RSVP - Please respond (used for event invites)
     Example: “Planning a party this Saturday – RSVP if you’re coming!”

20. Shopping & E-commerce Abbreviations

For all you online shoppers, these abbreviations make browsing, buying, and selling easier. From product details to shopping incentives, they cover a lot.

181. B2B - Business to business
     Example: “We supply B2B services to local stores.”

182. B2C - Business to consumer
     Example: “This brand has a strong B2C strategy.”

183. P2P - Peer-to-peer
     Example: “This platform is great for P2P sales.”

184. POS - Point of sale
     Example: “We’re updating our POS system.”

185. COD - Cash on delivery
     Example: “They offer COD options for deliveries.”

186. ETA - Estimated time of arrival
     Example: “Waiting for my package – ETA tomorrow!”

187. FYI - For your information
     Example: “FYI, this item is on sale.”

188. MSRP - Manufacturer’s suggested retail price
     Example: “Got it for less than MSRP!”

189. B2G1 - Buy two, get one
     Example: “They’ve got a B2G1 sale on shoes.”

190. P&P - Postage and packaging
     Example: “Total cost with P&P included.”

21. Educational & Academic Abbreviations

Studying or working in education? Here’s a quick-reference guide to abbreviations for common academic terms.

191. PhD - Doctor of Philosophy
     Example: “She’s working towards her PhD in psychology.”

192. MA - Master of Arts
     Example: “He earned his MA in English literature.”

193. SAT - Scholastic Assessment Test
     Example: “My SAT scores just came in – fingers crossed!”

194. GPA - Grade point average
     Example: “I’m aiming to improve my GPA this semester.”

195. STEM - Science, technology, engineering, and math
     Example: “Pursuing a career in STEM.”

196. PTA - Parent-teacher association
     Example: “Attending a PTA meeting this evening.”

197. ESL - English as a second language
     Example: “He teaches ESL to international students.”

198. GED - General Educational Development (diploma)
     Example: “She’s studying for her GED exams.”

199. KPI - Key performance indicator
     Example: “Teachers use KPIs to measure student success.”

200. MOOC - Massive open online course
     Example: “I’m taking a MOOC on digital marketing.”

How to Use Text Abbreviations Effectively

1. Know Your Audience: Always consider who you're communicating with. Text abbreviations are great for friends, casual conversations, or social media, but might not be appropriate for professional emails or formal messages. If you're unsure, it's safer to use the full words.

2. Use Abbreviations Sparingly: While text abbreviations can save time, overusing them can make your messages unclear or seem lazy. Use them where it makes sense, but don't rely on them too heavily, especially when the context is serious or important.

3. Stay Consistent: Once you start using an abbreviation, try to stick to it throughout the conversation. Switching between multiple abbreviations or using too many in one message can be confusing. For example, choose BRB or GTG but don't mix both in one sentence unless the situation calls for it.

4. Be Clear: If you're using an abbreviation that might be unfamiliar to someone, make sure it's something they’ll understand. For example, not everyone may be familiar with abbreviations like IDK (I Don’t Know) or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). In these cases, it’s good practice to define the abbreviation early in the conversation.

5. Know When to Stop: Text abbreviations should enhance communication, not replace it. If a conversation is serious or you’re conveying important details, it's better to avoid abbreviations and be clear and formal. For example, TMI (Too Much Information) might be great for informal chats, but for something important like a job interview, avoid abbreviations altogether.

6. Use Them for Emphasis: Abbreviations like OMG or SMH can add emphasis or express strong emotions. When used appropriately, they can make your messages more engaging, but be mindful not to overuse them, or they’ll lose their impact.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the 200 popular text abbreviations above are a useful tool for efficient and informal communication, but they should be used thoughtfully and in the right context to avoid misunderstandings and to keep the conversation clear and effective.