To express themselves quickly, English speakers often use abbreviations and acronyms. Don’t be fooled! Even though these words may look like a different language, they are commonly used in English writing.

Abbreviations are shortened versions of words, usually only a few letters long such as dr. for doctor. 

An acronym is a word created from the first letter of a multi-word phrase. For example, brb stands for be right back.

Knowing abbreviations and acronyms can help you understand and participate in English in informal conversations in writing. Depending on the situation and person you are writing to, some words can be used informally in text messages while others might be used more formally in e-mails.

 

Text Messages

 

1. lol- laugh out loud

One of the most frequently used shortened word in English, lol is used primarily in texting informally. If someone writes a joke or a funny statement, you can respond that you are laughing out loud to let them know how funny they are.

 

What happens to an illegally parked frog? It gets toad away.

Lol! That was funny!

 

2. lmk- let me know

If you are writing to someone and are trying to confirm plans, you could tell them lmk for them to inform you later about their decision.

 

Do you want to meet for lunch? lmk.

 

3. idk- I don’t know

When someone is unsure of something, they may respond idk to signify they are indecisive.

 

What do you want to eat for dinner?

Idk.

 

4. np- no problem

A quick way to say “you’re welcome” or to explain they have nothing to worry about is to use np.

Thanks for reminding me about the birthday party!

Np.

 

5. btw- by the way

If you would like to add more information to a conversation, you might say btw, followed by the extra information.

Btw do you want to come to the movies this Friday?

 

E-mails

 

6. asap- as soon as possible

This acronym is commonly used in the workplace when a person needs something done quickly. You can write this on the bottom of e-mails to express urgency.

 

I need the project done ASAP.  

 

7. tbd- to be decided

Perhaps your team at work does not have a final answer regarding a date or a project. You can write tbd to let everyone know that the decision will be made in the future.

 

The budget for the next trimester is tbd.

 

Both

 

8. o.b- date of birth

When filling out paperwork at a doctor’s office or during a job interview, you may see a section that says dob. You should write your complete birth date.

 

Next to your name, write you d.o.b.

 

9. eta- estimated time of arrival

If you are meeting coworkers or friends, they may ask for an eta to let them know when they should expect you.

 

I just arrived to the restaurant. What is your eta?

 

10. - verses

Frequently used in both academic and informal writing, vs. shows two contrasting topics.

 

The competitors debated about plastic vs. paper bags.