Text abbreviations are constantly changing, and as a result, millennials like myself, are often Googling phrases before responding to friends and family. But fortunately for us, I put together this simple text-slang translator. Simply a phrase and click the generate button.
CAUTION: This translator uses Urban Dictionary and other sources to determine the definition of the text you enter. This can result in definitions that may be innappropriate for children or that some may find offensive.
For quick referece, I've included some common text abbreviations that you may encounter in your next online conversation.
SMH: Shaking My Head - Used to express disapproval, disappointment, or frustration.
NPC meaning - Non Playable Character - This is generally used as an insult if describing another person. If it's used in game it generally refers to a character you cannot play as.
FTW: For The Win - Used to show enthusiasm or approval for something.
IYKYK meaning If you know you know - Generally hints at an inside joke or cultural reference.
STG meaning Swear to God - Can mean that you are either really annoyed or that you're trying to convince someone that what you're saying is true.
Finsta meaning - A fake Instagram account or it can be used in lieu of the American Souther phrase "fixing to", i.e. I am fixing to go to the store. .
IMO: In My Opinion - Used to indicate that the following statement is the speaker's personal viewpoint.
IRL: In Real Life - Used to distinguish between online interactions and real-world interactions.
LMAO: Laughing My Ass Off - Used to indicate extreme laughter.
MAGA: Make America Great Again - Trump's 2016 campaign slogan.
NSFW: Not Safe For Work - Used to indicate content that is inappropriate for the workplace.
OTW: On The Way - Used to indicate that someone is coming or something is en route.
SMH: Shaking My Head - Used to express disapproval, disappointment, or frustration.
TBH: To Be Honest - Used to preface an honest opinion or statement.
YOLO: You Only Live Once - Used to encourage living life to the fullest.
TL;DR: Too Long; Didn't Read - Used to summarize a lengthy text or post.
DM: Direct Message - Sending a private message on social media.
SMH: Shaking My Head - Used to express disapproval, disappointment, or frustration.
TTYL: Talk To You Later - Used to indicate a temporary farewell.
YOLO: You Only Live Once - A term used to encourage someone to do something.
TYT: Take Your Time - Used to advise someone not to rush and proceed at their own pace.
OMW: On My Way - Used to indicate that someone is on their way to a specific location.
WBU: What About You? - Used to ask someone about their opinion or plans.
WTF: What The F*** - Used to express extreme surprise, shock, or disbelief.
XOXO: Hugs and Kisses - Used to send affectionate regards or sign off a message with love.
ICYMI: In Case You Missed It - Used to bring attention to something important that may have been overlooked.
IMO: In My Opinion - Used to indicate that the following statement is the speaker's personal viewpoint.
IRL: In Real Life - Used to distinguish between online interactions and real-world interactions.
LMAO: Laughing My Ass Off - Used to indicate extreme laughter.
BRB: Be Right Back - Used to indicate a brief absence or leaving a conversation temporarily.
GR8: Great - Used as a shortened form of "great."
IDK: I Don't Know - Used to indicate uncertainty or lack of knowledge.
NVM: Never Mind - Used to indicate that something previously mentioned is no longer relevant.
OMG: Oh My God - Used to express surprise, shock, or excitement.
PLZ: Please - Used as a shortened form of "please."
Posted by: Matt Irving on 7/23/2023