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Everyday English Abbreviations You Should Know

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

A man using a power tool to drill a hole in a piece of wood

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

A wooden hand holding a card with a question mark

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

A formal invitation wrapped in a cloth ribbon

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: