15 English abbreviations you need to know
Everyone loves a bit of code, and acronyms and abbreviations are great little tools that make communication faster and more fun. They’re commonly seen across English communication, from abbreviations used in text messages to professional emails. We’ll get into the examples you’ll encounter soon. But first, a quick cheat sheet.
What are abbreviations and how are they used?
- Abbreviations are shortened versions of words and sometimes end in a period (for example, accomm. for accommodation or adj. for adjective).
How do abbreviations differ from acronyms and initialisms?
- Acronyms are pronounceable, so you read them out as if they’re a name, and are formed by using the first letter of each word in a phrase (such as NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
- An initialism is when the word is pronounced letter by letter, such as the UN (the United Nations). (Fun fact – “the” is usually added before an initialism but not an acronym, as in “I’m an interpreter at the UN,” or “I have an interview at NASA.”)-https://bk333com.com/
Let’s dive into the abbreviations
1. RSVP – Please reply
As with so much of English, this comes from French. RSVP stands for “Répondez s’il vous plait”. You’ll see this request on invitations to weddings and other parties. And yes, please do reply – that way, the bride or host knows exactly how many salmon fillets to order.
Abbreviation in action: Thank you for the invite to your wedding! I’ll RSVP soon, I just need to check with work to get the time off.
2. ASAP – As soon as possible
“Can you get this in ASAP?” reads the email from your boss. Depending on the project, this may or may not cause panic – but in any case, you don’t have much time to think!
Abbreviation in action: I’m sorry I haven’t replied to your invite yet, I’ll get back to you ASAP!
3. AM/PM – Before midday (morning) and after midday (afternoon)
There’s a huge difference between 5 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon — and these little terms have it covered. Remember, don’t use them if you use 24-hour time (6 AM is the same as 18:00), and be careful to set your alarm correctly. A “morning” alarm that goes off at 7 PM doesn’t help anyone!
Abbreviation in action: The meeting is starting at 11 AM, please bring your laptops.https://bk333com.com/
4. LMK – Let me know
Casual, friendly — perfect for the end of a text. LMK shows that you are expecting confirmation or more information.
Abbreviation in action: I can’t wait for brunch in yours on Saturday! Can I bring anything, like fresh pastries? LMK.
5. BRB – Be right back
Sometimes when chatting, something demands our attention: be it the doorbell, a cat wanting to be let out, or an irresistible caffeine craving. Don’t sweat it — just let your friend know you’ll BRB.
Abbreviation in action: BRB, I need to answer the door.
6. DOB – Date of birth
“What IS my DOB?” you might have wondered the first time you saw this. After all, it does sound like a poorly chosen item of clothing or a foul type of medicine. Well, rest assured you do have a DOB — we all do. You probably celebrate yours each year with far too much cake, ice cream, and requisite silly hats.
Abbreviation in action: By the way, what’s your DOB? We’re making a spreadsheet with everyone’s birthdays in the office.
7. CC/BCC – Carbon copy/blind carbon copy
Although they refer to the age of email, these terms take their names from the analog years, when copies were made using carbon paper. Quick etiquette tip: when adding people to the CC email field, remember they “can clearly” see who else has received the email. (And don’t “reply all” unless you really want to!)
Abbreviation in action: Let me introduce you to Jonny, our new press officer. He’s CC’d on this email, please give him access to the shared drive.
8. TBA/TBC – To be announced/To be confirmed
Remember your friend whose wedding invitation you need to RSVP ASAP to? Be careful if it says venue TBA or groom TBC. It means she doesn’t have everything organized just yet!
Abbreviation in action: Hi all! I’m having a housewarming on the 10th of January, please save the date. The start time is still TBC, I’ll let you know shortly.https://bk333com.com/
9. ETA – Estimated time of arrival
“See you on Tuesday, ETA 9 PM.” You might see this when someone is traveling but is unsure of when their flight gets in.
Abbreviation in action: I’m running late, my new ETA is 7:15 PM.
10. TGIF – Thank God it’s Friday
Sung by workers worldwide each Friday afternoon — the weekend is here!-https://bk333com.com/