Texting As Its Own Language
Over the past decade, texting has emerged as its own unique dialect. In the past, chat-speak was frequently used because of character limitation (160 characters) and billing fees. Hence, “you” became “u,” “too/two/to” became “2”, and “got to go” became “g2g.”
Fortunately, a lot has changed since the days of charging by the letter! Wonderfully affordable cell phone plans with unlimited texting emerged. This upgrade made for happy texters who were no longer forced to use acronyms to get around the outrageous fees.
However, that was not the last we heard of the beloved and widely-used abbreviations and acronyms. Texting is a speedy means of communication, and text-speak makes it even more quick and convenient. Savvy communicators haven’t stopped with the old-school acronyms such as “g2g.” In fact, shorthand versions of words are still popping up everywhere.
Texting Glossary – Contemporary Acronyms
The world of text-speak has grown considerably since those pioneer days, and it continues to grow today. There are tons of new acronyms and abbreviations coming from social media outlets, forums, and blogs, for example:
IAWTC: I agree with this comment
IDK / IDEK: I don’t know / I don’t even know (IDEK is used in disbelief or astonishment)
IDC: I don’t care
HDU: How dare you
HMU: Hit me up
SMH: Shaking my head
PM: Private message
DL: Down-low (“Keep it on the DL” is a way of saying “Don’t tell anyone else about this”)
QFT: Quoted for truth (this is written to show that you support or agree what your texting partner just said)
JK: Just kidding
Original Words
While not necessarily acronyms, some words commonly used in texting have been shortened from their dictionary-friendly original forms. Here are a few:
BF/GF: Boyfriend/Girlfriend
DD: Dear daughter*
DH: Dear husband
DS: Dear son
DW: Dear wife
Ditto: Same here
Dunno: I don’t know
FB: Facebook
Gonna: Going to
Gotta: Got to
Imma: I’m going to
Srsly: Seriously
* Note: DD, DH, DS and DW originally began as an anonymous way to discuss other family members online without mentioning their names. Today, these acronyms are typically used as a time saver.
Symbols To Keep In Mind
Don’t be shocked if some of these common symbols below pop up on your screen from time to time:
<3
A heart
?
A text consisting of nothing except a question mark signals that your texting partner is confused and doesn’t know how to react to the information you just sent them.
!
A text with only exclamation marks is a sign that your texting partner is shocked, and waiting for more information from you. Before you get too worked up, remember that it’s generally positive. This type of response should be expected after sending something such as, “I’m moving across the country!” or “I have a new job!”
^5
High-five.
\m/
A “rocker” hand, also called “the horns,” usually paired with “Great job!” or “Good luck!” or “Awesome!”
: ))))))))))
Most people are accustomed to basic emoticons. Sometimes, though, smiley faces are given their own special style. An emoticon such as this is the equivalent of a very large, contented smile. Similarly, : ((((((((( should be interpreted as a large frown, and : DDDDDDD is a huge grin.
Special Verbal Considerations
The high use of text-speak and net-speak in our daily lives means that many linguistic rules have been bent, changed, or eradicated. Nouns, especially branded nouns, have become commonly accepted verbs. Here are a few examples:
FB me
Talk to me on Facebook.
Tag it
This means, “Categorize your blog posts” or “Tag those pictures with our names.”
Hashtag
Hashtags (#) are used on Twitter and blog websites as a way to track subjects. For example, writing “# this weekend” means, “Consider this information or message filed under ‘this weekend.’”
Don’t Forget English 101
Correct punctuation, grammar, and capitalization indicate formality and an urge to impress you. Note: this is a good thing! It’s something that you should try to copy, and apply to each text message that you send your crush or partner.
An Abundance Of Emoticons
These can be thrown in when texting close friends and family if you’d like to show happiness or playfulness. They can also be used to tone down an argumentative or serious conversation. By using an emoticon here and there, you’ll make it clear that you’re not upset with the other person, and that it’s JUST a conversation.
The Dreaded One Or two Word Responses
Unless stated otherwise, assume that this is your texting partner’s polite way of letting you know that they are busy, or they have nothing else to say. After you receive a “one-word wonder,” try to keep yourself limited to one last text, or better yet, quit while you’re ahead.
Keep Them Laughing…And Keep Them Close
Sending funny text messages to your crush is a great way to keep them entertained, interested in you, and motivated to send you some of their own humorous messages in return. Just like with flirty photos, always acknowledge their attempt at humor, no matter how bad it might be. What’s the best way to do this? Try one of these:
Hahaha! You’re A Riot
Text this back if you have just received a joke. It’s also a good way to lighten the mood without sounding patronizing.
LOL
This acronym for “laughing out loud” has become widely recognized as more conversational than literal. An LOL now and then gives the appearance of a cheery disposition.
Heehee
A more flirtatious and coy version of “Hahaha.”
OMG
Short for “Oh my God/gosh.” Similar to LOL, OMG has become very casual and should not be slipped into texts when you’re discussing serious matters.
Wow/Whoa
Two good short words to express disbelief, and possibly sympathy.
Oh No/Oh Goodness
Use these to express sincere shock.
CAPSLOCK
This is often considered the text equivalent of shouting, and can be perceived as rude in the wrong situations. However, it can also be a clear sign of positive excitement. Use it sparingly.
Miscellaneous Emotions
Below I’ve included a few “extras” that you might want to throw in from time to time:
Aww
This has a number of uses. “Aww” is texted to show empathy, compassion, and amusement.
Eugh/Augh
These are noises of disgust.
Ohhh
A way to show understanding or sudden clarity.
Tread Carefully With Sarcasm
Before you start peppering your messages with Bill Murray style sarcasm, make sure that you are communicating with someone who appreciates this brand of humor. If you’re on the other end and are trying to decipher whether or not someone’s being sarcastic then ask yourself if there are any:
– extra characters tacked onto a word? (For instance, “Wellllllllll….”)
– emoticons?
– exclamation marks?
These can all be subtle clues that the person texting you is being sarcastic or is teasing you.
Enjoy The Conversation Using This Fun Texting Glossary
Keep in mind that every texting experience is different. It’s important not to let yourself become overwhelmed when you spot something that you don’t understand. Over time, you will develop your own unique lingo with your texting partner.
While adding cute emotions and using acronyms is fun, don’t forget that there are other ways to make your texts even more enticing. If you’d like to learn how to write funny, sexy, and sweet messages for any occasion, then stick around. I will teach you how to text using French seduction techniques and tips. Masterful texting is fun, and could just be the edge that you need to make them want you and keep wanting you.
