LOL, BRB, NBS. Text messages sometimes feel like they’re written in code between all the abbreviations. But no need to feel puzzled – learning today’s texting shorthand is simple.
This comprehensive guide covers all the popular text abbreviations and acronyms you need to know. We’ll explore modern messaging slang like “NBS meaning in text”, along with lesser-known tricks for formatting like italics and bolding.
What Does “NBS” Mean in Text Messages and Online?
If you’ve spent any time on social media or texting apps lately, you may have seen the abbreviation “NBS” pop up without knowing what it stands for. So what exactly does NBS mean when people use it in sentences or add it to their posts?
NBS stands for “no bullshit” and is used to emphasize that someone is being totally serious about what they’re saying. The abbreviation has been around for many years in online writing and text messages, but seems to have exploded in popularity on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok over the last few years.
The No Nonsense Origin of NBS
Similar to how LOL signals something is meant lightheartedly, NBS flags that the statement should be taken seriously and at face value. According to Urban Dictionary, NBS originated as an “old hacker acronym” to convey that a conversation would be straightforward and strictly business – no nonsense or messing around.
From the tech world, NBS crossed over into mainstream digital conversations and text messaging shorthand. It lets the recipient know that the sender means exactly what they’re saying. If someone adds #nbs, nbs, or “no bullshit” to their message, they likely intend for it to be taken seriously instead of as sarcasm or exaggeration.
Using NBS to Emphasize Seriousness
Adding NBS to a statement removes any ambiguity about the intent. Here are some examples of how it can be seamlessly worked into sentences:
- “I need to talk to you NBS“
- “I’m not kidding around NBS“
- “This relationship isn’t working out #nbs“
In all of those cases, tacking on NBS underscores that the sender is being direct and upfront. There’s no hidden meaning or sarcasm intended. It signals that the message should be taken at face value.
NBS is commonly used as a hashtag on social media posts where tone can sometimes be unclear. On more visual platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, people add #nbs to emphasise they fully mean what they’re saying or posting.
I look a hot mess 97% of the time but that 3% 🔥 #nbs @da.baby.kaii
If you see me with my parents, I don’t know you sorry #nbs 😀 @zoeeoliviaa_
You’ll also see it frequently in serious conversations on messaging apps and texts where there is no body language or vocal cues to interpret. Dropping in a quick “NBS” leaves no room for the meaning to be misconstrued.
Close Variations: NBD and NVM
NBS falls into the category of initialisms used in digital communication along with some close variations:
- NBD = No Big Deal
- NVM = Nevermind
- NP = No Problem
While NBS indicates seriousness, NBD and NVM imply the opposite. Sending “NBD” suggests something is not a big issue or concern. Using “NVM” indicates the sender is disregarding what they previously said.
These related initialisms all serve the same function of qualifying tone and intent. Whether it’s “NBS,” “NBD,” or “NVM,” they provide clarity around the subtext of short digital messages.
So next time you spot NBS in a text or social media post, you can feel confident it’s being used to connote “no bullshit” or that the statement should be taken literally. It’s the sender’s way of directly emphasizing they fully mean what they’re communicating, no exaggeration or sarcasm included.
JS and JSP in Texting: Not JavaScript Code
If you’ve ever received a text containing “JS” or “JSP”, you may have momentarily wondered if the sender pasted JavaScript code by accident. But luckily there’s no need to dust off your coding skills – these abbreviations have completely different meanings in the world of texting and online chatting!
JS Means “Just Saying”
When someone sends JS in a text or IM, they simply mean “just saying.” It’s typically used when providing opinions or perspectives on something.
For example:
- “That restaurant seems overpriced JS”
- “Your boyfriend doesn’t treat you right JS”
- “JS I don’t think this is going to work out”
Including JS softens the tone slightly so the message doesn’t seem overly harsh or critical. It indicates the sender is simply expressing their thoughts or making an observation.
The JS abbreviation has the same function as phrases like:
- “I’m just saying…”
- “Just pointing out…”
- “Just an observation…”
It allows the sender to share their true thoughts while downplaying it as casual opinion rather than facts set in stone.
JSP Polishes the Tone Further
A variation of JS that’s sometimes used is JSP, which stands for “just saying please.”
JSP takes the softening tone of JS one step further by explicitly adding “please” to come across extra polite. For example:
- “I don’t think his intentions are good JSP“
- “This doesn’t seem safe JSP“
- “He’s probably not that into you JSP“
Where JS takes the edge off statements to avoid seeming combative or assertive, JSP coats them with an extra layer of courtesy. It’s a way to convey your perspective while showing consideration for the recipient’s feelings.
Of course, both JS and JSP are still ultimately just abbreviations for “just saying” when you get down to the origins. But JSP goes the extra mile to be sensitive.
JS and JSP for Qualifying Opinions
Similar to terms like IMO (“in my opinion”) and IME (“in my experience”), using JS or JSP allows the sender to express their thoughts without stating them as immutable facts.
Some other phrases that JS and JSP can often act as shorthand for:
- “Just my two cents…”
- “Take this with a grain of salt but…”
- “Don’t quote me on this but…”
So in summary, JS = “Just saying” and JSP = “Just saying please.” Both clarify that what follows is simply an opinion, not a lecture.
Next time you get a text or IM with one of these abbreviations, you can feel confident the sender is just expressing their personal thoughts, not trying to force their views on you. Consider JS as a lead-in to casual opinions from friends and JSP as opinions wrapped in extra cotton padding to minimize offense.
Relationship to Other Initialisms
JS and JSP belong to the expansive world of digital initialisms and abbreviations used as shorthand in texts, IMs, emails, and online posts. Here are some other common examples:
- TBH = To Be Honest
- BRB = Be Right Back
- TYVM = Thank You Very Much
- IMO = In My Opinion
- ROFL = Rolling On Floor Laughing
Like these other initialisms, JS and JSP allow efficient communication combined with nuanced tone in short digital messages. They add clarity and context that can otherwise be missing in texts and IMs compared to in-person conversations.
So next time you see JS or JSP in a message, you can interpret it without confusion, unlike if it was actual JavaScript source code! Take it as the sender’s casual perspective, not an irrefutable statement of fact. With JS or JSP softening the delivery, the opinion will come across sensitively rather than abrasively.
Texting Abbreviations Using Numbers and Letters
Beyond just letters, text messaging abbreviations also frequently incorporate numbers and symbols. These combos allow efficiently conveying common phrases and sentiments in digital communication.
The Origins of Text Abbreviations
Where did text abbreviations come from originally? Shortened versions of words and phrases emerged naturally to save time and effort. Typing on 9-key phone keypads was tedious, so texters devised creative ways to get their messages across using fewer key taps.
As texting and online messaging exploded in popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, shorthand abbreviations took off. They allowed faster communication combined with expressive tone.
Today text abbreviations feel like a language of their own. While early IM apps like AIM pioneered many, the rise of texting introduced abbreviations tailored specifically to mobile.
From early texter slang emerged the massive treasure trove of abbreviations used today across texting, social media, email,messaging, and comments.
Common Text Shorthand Using Letters
Many popular text abbreviations consist solely of letters. For example:
- BRB = Be Right Back
- FYI = For Your Information
- LOL = Laugh Out Loud
- BTW = By The Way
- LMK = Let Me Know
- IMHO = In My Humble Opinion
These types of letter-based shorthand save time and space. They allow cramming more information into limited text fields when needed.
Number Substitutions in Text Abbreviations
Along with letter combos, many text abbreviations substitute numbers for words that sound similar.
Some common examples are:
- B4 = Before
- 2day = Today
- 2moro = Tomorrow
- 4ever = Forever
- HMU = Hit Me Up
Incorporating numbers gives more options for shortening phrases into texting abbreviations. Since letters alone are limited, numbers fill the gaps nicely.
The Top Text & Chat Abbreviations to Know
While there are thousands of text abbreviations, some show up more universally than others. Here are some of the most common ones seen in everyday digital communication:
- LOL – Laugh Out Loud
- BRB – Be Right Back
- G2G – Got To Go
- TY / TYVM – Thank You / Thanks You Very Much
- NP / NBD – No Problem / No Big Deal
- IMO / IMHO – In My Opinion / In My Humble Opinion
- TBH – To Be Honest
- FYI / FWIW – For Your Information / For What It’s Worth
- FTW – For The Win
- IRL – In Real Life
- TMI – Too Much Information
- DM – Direct Message
- HT – Headed To
You’ll see these ubiquitous abbreviations pop up regularly in digital conversations. Learning them provides useful fluency.
In addition, more abbreviations constantly emerge. New generation-specific slang gets minted regularly on apps like Snapchat and TikTok. Staying on top of the latest trends helps ensure you won’t get left behind as language evolves!
How Texting Abbreviations Streamline Conversation
It’s easy to dismiss text abbreviations as inane shorthand only used by teenagers. In reality, they serve many helpful purposes, no matter your age.
Text abbreviations get points across quickly. They allow conveying more information with limited typing. This increased efficiency makes casual messaging and conversations flow better.
Abbreviations help indicates tone and subtext. Shorthand like “LOL” and “TBH” qualifying the intent behind statements. Tone and nuance can otherwise get lost electronically.
They aid lighthearted, informal chat. Abbreviations set an upbeat, casual tone perfect for friendly chats. Lengthy formal spelling gives a stiffer tone.
Learning abbreviations expands communication opportunities. Knowing text slang opens doors socially, just like learning any new language skill.
So rather than criticize abbreviations as lazy or dismiss them as just for kids, appreciate the creativity and utility! Adapt some into your own repertoire to communicate casually and conveniently.
A Helpful Learning Guide for Texting Newbies
If you struggle to interpret today’s texting shorthand, don’t fret. Here are some tips:
- Search reference guides online listing common abbreviations and meanings. Many sites compile helpful official lists.
- Ask texters for clarification when stumped. Most will happily explain unfamiliar terms if asked politely.
- Start incorporating widely used classics like “LOL” and “BRB” to get your feet wet.
- Use context clues to infer probable meanings. Guess based on the full conversation.
Adopting modern texting conventions doesn’t mean totally abandoning proper spelling and grammar. Find a balance that keeps your texts readable while also embracing some fun shorthand.
Text abbreviations represent creativity and practicality in modern digital communication. They deliver nuance efficiently and give conversations an approachable feel through their informality. Rather than overlooking them, leverage abbreviations to communicate casually, convey tone, and save time. Adopt the classics first, then expand your shorthand vocabulary from there.
Formatting Tricks and “Hacks” for Texting
Plain texting may seem limited, but crafty texters have devised all sorts of creative tricks for spicing up formatting. You can apply italics, bolding, color, line breaks, and much more without needing to install any apps.
These texting format tweaks help add visual interest and personality beyond solely the words themselves. Let’s explore some popular options.
Forward Slashes for Instant Italics
To quickly italicize words or phrases in a text, place them between forward slashes like this:
/italicized words/
The forward slashes indicate to the receiver that the enclosed words should be read with italic emphasis.
For example:
- Can you pick up some /eggs/ on your way home?
- I am feeling /extremely/ tired today.
- She is just so /dramatic/ sometimes, you know?
The italicized words will stand out visually to highlight key parts of your message. Change up forward slash placement to keep italicizing fresh phrases.
Asterisks to Bold Key Text
Similar to italics, you can bold words in texts by placing asterisks around them:
bolded words
For instance:
- I am feeling very nervous about my interview tomorrow.
- Do not open the package until your birthday!
- Please confirm you received my last message about the changed plans.
Asterisks draw attention to important specifics that need highlighting. Use them sparingly though so they retain visual punch.
Custom Color Options
On smartphones, some messaging apps allow custom font colors to make words stand out even more.
Each app has different ways to enable this. Some examples:
- WhatsApp : Type a hash before hex color codes like
#FF0000 - iMessage : Hit the arrow beside the text box then tap the color circles
- Messenger : Click the (+A) icon then choose a text color
Colors can help differentiate multiple people in group chats or make key terms grab interest out of blocks of black text.
Fancy Stylized Text Generators
Some online tools let you convert plain text into stylized variations with cool fonts and effects. For example:
- C͎u̬r̝s̪i̪v́e̖ / Gothic / Bubble letters
- Underlined, struckthrough, or dotted text
- Fluffy cloud, fire, and flower font effects
Copy special text from generators, then paste into messaging apps. Use sparingly though, as overdoing stylized text quickly looks messy.
Clever Line Breaks and Spacing
To start text on a new line without sending a multipage essay, press the space bar twice before Enter instead of just once.
For example:
Starting a new line looks like this.
Two spaces together
trigger a line break.
This keeps everything contained in one sent message while still allowing separate text lines.
More Tricks for Visually Engaging Text
A few more clever text formatting tricks to try:
- Underline with underscores like this
- Quote text with a greater than symbol >like this
- Superscript with a caret symbol like 5^3^ = 125
- Subscript using a tilde like H~2~O
With just regular keyboards and symbols, options abound for making text messages stand out visually. Apply formatting thoughtfully as one element to enhance texts, rather than going overboard on stylization.
Formatting Apps for Further Customization
If the built-in text formatting options feel too limiting, download dedicated messaging apps with more controls. For example:
- Cool Fonts offers thousands of fun artistic fonts.
- Font Candy has advanced tools like letter spacing, lines, and alignment.
- Stylish Text generates fancy word art.
- KG Font provides unique curved, slanted, and calligraphy fonts.
Explore fonts and play with alignments to add some extra flare. But keep readability in mind – cryptic styling should augment texts, not replace clear communication.
Online Text Art Platforms
In addition to font apps, online text art generators offer cool effects like:
- ASCII art (symbols and characters forming images)
- Text banners with flair
- Horizontal text scrolling effects
- Image to text converters
- Fancy text borders and dividers
Browse galleries for inspiration, create custom text art variations, then copy into messaging apps as needed.
Again, use tastefully. Text art dazzles in small doses but wears out its welcome if overused. Think enhancement, not substitution.
Overdoing It with Text Effects
When experimenting with text effects, keep moderation in mind. Fancy formatting should accentuate communication, not act as the sole focus.
Signs you’ve gone too far with text effects:
- Cryptic styling hinders readability
- Overshadows the substantive message
- Looks cluttered on tiny smartphone screens
- Comes across as impersonal or flaky
Use formatting thoughtfully as needed to draw attention, elicit emotion, or boost engagement. But don’t let tricks distract from meaningful conversation. Apply restraint to keep text tolerable on small screens.
With practice, you can masterfully balance utility and decorativeness in text formatting. Access symbols, special characters, apps, generators, and online tools for customizable flair not possible in plain texts.
Texting Etiquette and Best Practices
With texting dominating modern communication, mastering proper texting etiquette helps ensure you come across considerately. Apply these tips for polished, polite text conversations that make recipients comfortable.
Avoid the All Caps Shouting Effect
Typing whole texts in all capital letters comes across as aggressive, like SHOUTING angrily.
For example:
- WHERE ARE YOU?
- CALL ME AS SOON AS YOU GET THIS
- I NEED TO TALK TO YOU NOW
The intensity feels jarring on laid-back messaging platforms. Reserve all caps for exception cases like emergencies or quick FYIs.
For everyday conversation, standard capitalization reads smoothly without confrontation:
- Where are you?
- Call me when you can.
- I need to talk when you have a chance.
Use Abbreviations Thoughtfully
Texting abbreviations add efficiency and casual flair. But lean on them too heavily in formal contexts and messages seem lazy.
For example, pardon excessive shorthand with new contacts, older generations, colleagues, employers, and in sensitive talks.
Situational appropriateness trumps rules. A few LOLs and BRBs between friends are fine. But if texting your boss, stick to proper English to show respect.
Consider Recipients’ Tech Savvy
Gauge a recipient’s texting fluency before bombarding with the latest slang and tricks.
New texters or tech novices appreciate clean messages they can instantly understand. Avoid bewildering them with overly cute abbreviations and stylization right off the bat.
Use Proper Punctuation and Capitalization
Though casual, texts read far cleaner with proper punctuation and capitalization.
Compare:
- ok sounds good let me know if you need help with anything!
To:
- Ok, sounds good. Let me know if you need help with anything!
Little flourishes like commas and periods go a long way. They make large blocks of lower-case text more accessible.
Spell Out Potentially Ambiguous Words
Autocorrect garbles words like “totally”, “definitely”, “address”, and “on my way.” Spell them fully instead of abbreviating to avoid confusion.
For example, “omw” autocorrects itself hilariously unlike the intended “on my way.”
Divide Long Messages into Readable Parts
When text requires multiple paragraphs, break them into digestible chunks.
Walls of sentences flowing nonstop come across denser and less organized. Adding line breaks between key thoughts helps pace messages for readability.
Clarify New Terms Without Condescension
Unfamiliar terms pop up in texts as slang evolves. Resist ridiculing abbreviations you don’t immediately recognize.
Instead, politely ask for clarification using neutral phrasing:
- “Just so I understand, what does [term] mean?”
- “I’m not familiar with [term] – could you explain it?”
If you receive clarification, thank the person for taking the time to explain without shaming. Feedback should address your comprehension, not their language.
Apply Text Formatting in Moderation
Take advantage of text formatting like bolding judiciously. Avoid overusing it, as too many fonts and colors only distract.
Use formatting where it adds the most value – highlighting key points, adding visual hierarchy, indicating tone, etc.
Proofread Before Sending
As with any writing, re-reading texts before sending reduces mistakes. Catch autocorrect errors and typos by taking an extra pass through long responses.
Polished texting requires blending etiquette with convenience and personality. Mind your tone, clarify unfamiliar terms politely, use formatting judiciously, and remain situationally appropriate. With practice, these tips become second nature for winning texting technique.
Summary on Texting Abbreviations
Texting abbreviations represent an Evolution in digital communication with several benefits:
- They allow conveying more information quickly and conveniently. Texting abbreviations like “LOL” and “BRB” compress common phrases into just a few characters.
- Abbreviations help indicate tone and subtext that can otherwise get lost electronically. For example, “JS” softens statements as just opinion rather than fact.
- Creative formatting like asterisk bolding and forward slash italics adds helpful visual hierarchy. It draws attention to key points and enhances readability.
- Keep texting etiquette in mind by avoiding excessive shorthand with unfamiliar contacts, and clarifying unfamiliar terms politely if needed.
- Mastering texting abbreviations and conventions expands social opportunities, especially for parents communicating with teens and young adults.
- View abbreviations as an evolution in language, rather than a regression. Their efficiency and tone-conveying abilities showcase ingenuity.
With practice, shorthand texting conventions allow fast and nuanced digital conversations spanning generations. Approach abbreviations with an open mind, learn the most popular ones, and enrich your messaging with tasteful formatting tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Text Abbreviations
What does NBS mean in texts?
NBS stands for “no bullshit” and signals that the statement should be taken seriously, not as sarcasm or exaggeration.
What does JS mean in text messages?
JS stands for “just saying” and is used when providing opinions or perspectives, often to soften the tone.
How do you do italics and bolding in texts?
Use forward slashes /like this/ for italics and asterisks like this for bold.
What are some common text abbreviations I should know?
Popular ones include LOL, BRB, TY, NP, IMO, TBD, FYI, IRL, DM, and more.
Where can I find lists of texting abbreviations and meanings?
Many sites compile official dictionaries, like UrbanDictionary. Check texting reference guides online.
How do I politely ask someone what an abbreviation means?
Phrase it neutrally like “Just so I understand, what does [term] mean in your text?” rather than criticizing.
When is it appropriate to use abbreviations versus full spelling?
Use situational judgement. Avoid excessive shorthand with formal contacts like colleagues.
Can I use formatting like bolding and italics on all smartphones?
Most smartphones support basic formatting with symbols like asterisks for bold. Some apps have more options.
What if I text an abbreviation the other person doesn’t know?
Calmly ask for clarification. Slang terms constantly evolve, so gaps in awareness are normal.
Learning today’s texting conventions helps ensure you don’t get left behind. Start with the most popular abbreviations, ask for clarification politely when needed, and use formatting judiciously to enhance texts. With practice, shorthand texting will feel natural.