Everyday English Abbreviations You Should Know
English is full of useful shortcuts that let you express an idea with just a few letters.
This time, we'll look at some of the most common abbreviations used in daily life — useful for everything from chats with friends to formal invitations.
Common English Abbreviations
DIY
Short for: Do It Yourself
This abbreviation — often used as an adjective — relates to making things yourself or working independently.
You can find arts and crafts materials in the DIY aisle.
I've been working on a few DIY projects around the house. It's saved me a lot of money!
TBD
Short for: To Be Determined/Decided
We use TBD when details haven't been decided yet.
Although the release date has been confirmed, the price is TBD.
TBD is common in writing but not in spoken English; when speaking, you should simply say each word in full.
Although the release date has been confirmed, the price is to be determined.
aka
Short for: Also Known As
If a person, place or thing has more than one name, fluent speakers may introduce the alternative name with "aka."
Welcome to New York City, aka, The Big Apple.
Related article: Big Apples and Big Shoulders: Nicknames for 8 US Cities
RIP
Short for: Rest In Peace
It's common to see this abbreviation when someone passes away. It expresses hope that the spirit of the person who has died is resting peacefully.
You might see this on social media when an important person has died, but you can also find it on Halloween decorations as well.
RIP to Quincy Jones, who gave the world lots of great music.
FAQ
Short for: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs are special sections of websites that provide answers to common questions.
Please review our FAQ before contacting customer service, as you may find the solution to your problem there.
IMO
Short for: In My Opinion
Before sharing what you think about something in a real conversation, you might first introduce it with, "In my opinion…"
In writing, however, you can simply shorten this to "IMO."
IMO, visiting Europe would be more exciting than going to America.
You might also see "IMHO," which stands for "In My Humble Opinion." Adding "humble" gives the nuance that the speaker is being modest.
FYI
Short for: For Your Information
FYI is commonly used when people want to share information that they think is useful to know.
FYI, there's a major traffic jam on the highway, so take a different route if you can.
TBH
Short for: To Be Honest
We use this acronym before making a statement that directly communicates how we feel.
I'm a bit confused, TBH. Can you explain it again?
RSVP
Short for: Répondez S'il Vous Plaît
If "répondez s'il vous plaît" doesn't sound like English to you, you're right!
It's actually a French phrase that translates into English as "Please reply." However, the abbreviation is common in English-speaking countries for discussing invitations to special events.
RSVP can be used as a verb and a noun.
If you wish to attend, please RSVP by April 30.
How many RSVPs are there so far?
[How many people have told us that they will attend?]
ASAP
Short for: As Soon As Possible
This acronym is very common in business situations when work is required urgently.
This assignment is a high priority, so please send me the files ASAP.
Related article: 8 Expressions for Making Urgent Requests Politely
TBA
Short for: To Be Announced
Similar to TBD, you may see this abbreviation when important information hasn't been revealed yet. This means you should check back later for updates.
The event will feature special guests, TBA.
LMK
Short for: Let Me Know
This abbreviation is for causal usage. Use it in text messages when waiting to get information from a friend or colleague.
A
I'm still not sure if I'll be free for the party next week.
B
OK, lmk
Wrap-up
Abbreviations can pop up in conversations, on social media, on signs and in many other places. Understanding and using them properly is important for becoming a fluent English speaker.
If you'd like to learn more useful abbreviations and acronyms, check out the following posts:
