April 16, 2025
By Adrian Fletcher
Staff Writer
In a world where “LOL” and “lit” are part of daily communication, some argue that internet slang and text acronyms are ruining people’s vocabulary. However, this perspective overlooks the dynamic nature of language.
Far from ruining our communication skills, internet slang and text acronyms simply reflect how language adapts to new environments. Contrary to popular belief, they enhances the English language, offering new ways to express emotion, humor and ideas. This language is also convenient to use when time is limited and unites people. Best of all, the context in which slang is used is informal, so it does not detract from traditional English.
The English language was created over 1,600 years ago in the 5th century AD. It consists of roughly a million words, but there are still situations where slang is more appropriate than words from the dictionary.
The English language has been evolving since long before the digital age. However, phrases such as “BRB” and “GTG” were created on the internet and used exclusively online. These abbreviated phrases can be useful when time is scarce, such as when a person is trying to send a message to someone quickly before their phone dies, when they are in a rush or chatting with multiple people simultaneously.
The phrase “OTP,” which means “on the phone,” is an especially beneficial alternative to typing out the entire phrase. If someone calls while you are on the phone, you can quickly send a three-letter message to let them know why you didn’t pick up. This fast and convenient abbreviation is ideal for the digital age.
The English language was created over 1,600 years ago in the 5th century AD. It consists of roughly a million words, but there are still situations where slang is more appropriate than words from the dictionary.
“Ghosting,” for example, is when a person cuts off all communication with their friends or the person they are dating without warning or notice beforehand. They avoid a person’s phone calls, dodge them in public and even block them on social media. Defining ghosting without using the word is difficult. It would require a lengthy explanation because no word or term in English can describe this otherwise. If you are in a relationship and your love interest stops communicating with you abruptly, there is no better term to use than ghosting.
Text abbreviations and internet slang reflect an exciting evolution of language. It’s a way for people to express themselves in a manner that resonates with their digital communities. Simultaneously, it preserves the purpose of traditional English, which is to communicate effectively.
