APSU Writing Center
Text Message Language & Slang
Text Message Language
Often consists of abbreviations and slang often used in texting over the phone and other internet-based
conversations.
Below is a chart of typical abbreviations that are often used in the English Language. These should
NOT be used in Academic Writing.
ABT about IDC I don't care PM private message
AFK away from keyboard IKR I know right POV point of view
ASAP as soon as possible IM instant message RN right now
BF boyfriend IRL in real life SMH shaking my head
BRB be right back IYKYK if you know you know TBA to be announced
BTW by the way JK just kidding TBD to be decided
DIY do it yourself LMK let me know TBH to be honest
FYI for your information LOL laugh out loud THX thanks
GF girlfriend MYOB mind your own business TMI too much information
GG good game NP no problem TW trigger warning
OFC of course NBD No big deal
GR8 great
OMG oh my god/goodness NVM never mind
GTG got to go
IDK I don't know OMW on my way WYD what are you doing
APSU Writing Center
Text Message Language & Slang
References
Slick Text. (2023, February 2). 100+ Text Abbreviations and How to Use Them. SlickText.
https://www.slicktext.com/blog/2019/02/text-abbreviations-guide/
W&M Writing Resources Center. (2018). Text Language and Slang. W&M Writing Resources
Center. https://www.wm.edu/as/wrc/newresources/handouts/text-language-and-slang.pdf
