When it comes to learning English, knowing English abbreviations is just as important as memorizing vocabulary or understanding idioms. It is because a lot of it is used in daily conversation, and understanding it means you can communicate better. Here is a list of abbreviations commonly used daily.
6 English Abbreviation List to Remember
What are abbreviations?
An abbreviation is a process of shortening a word or a phrase for simpler use. Usually, it is used in both verbal and non-verbal conversations and on both formal and informal occasions.
The use of the abbreviation is quite common. So, it is best for you to familiarize yourself with them. Below are some abbreviations usually used in daily conversations:
AFK and BRB
AFK is short for “Away from Keyboard”. It indicates that the person is getting off the computer or phone for a while.
Usually, AFK is combined with BRB, which means “Be Right Back”. It ensures that the person is going to be in front of the screen again after taking a break.
Both terms are English abbreviations texting. Even so, some people also say it in daily conversation as well.
Example: “I will be AFK for a short while. BRB in 30 minutes.”
BYOB
If you stumble upon a restaurant or get invited to a party where there is a ‘BYOB’ rule, it does not mean they want to sound funny. In fact, BYOB stands for “Bring Your Own Bottle.”
The term means that you can bring your own drink to the occasion. Basically, you can bring any drink. But, usually, most people will bring alcoholic drinks.
Example: “There is a party at my house tonight at 9 PM. BYOB, ok?”
AWOL
Another common abbreviation in English is AWOL, which means “Absent Without Leave .”This term usually refers to someone absent or neglectful without noticing anyone.
Example: “This room is so messy as if the owner is going AWOL”
RSVP
RSVP is actually a French term, but it is common to use in English as well. The term is short for “répondez s’il vous plaît” which means “please reply”.
RSVP is usually put in an invitation to an event. If you receive an RSVP invitation, the host wants you to confirm whether you will be attending the event.
Example: “I will be holding an event in two weeks. Can you RSVP on June 2nd?”
LOL or ROFL
One of the most popular English abbreviation slang is LOL and ROFL. LOL is short for “Laughing Out Loud,” while ROFL means “Rolling on The Floor Laughing.”
Basically, the two terms mean the same; to laugh loudly because something is so funny. It is pretty common on the internet, especially in memes.
Example: “I am LOL-ing so hard whenever I remember the bread incident”
“ROFL. I thought it would be over by now.”
Miss, Ms, and Mrs
Miss, Ms, and Mrs are good examples of English abbreviations for students, as the three terms confuse people, especially if you are not a native speaker. Essentially, the terms refer to a woman, but what is the difference?
Generally, ‘Miss’ is suitable for young or unmarried women. Meanwhile, ‘Ms’ identifies women whose marital status is unclear or irrelevant, and ‘Mrs’ refers to a married woman.
In daily life, you can use the terms freely according to your preference. However, it is more polite to use them properly.
Example: “Mrs. Julie has one daughter, Miss Anne, and one sister, Ms. Clara”
The variations of abbreviations do not end there because there are hundreds of common abbreviations in English used daily.
Eager to know more? Come join us to learn English at Fun English Course. We have various programs you can enroll in, regardless of age or occupation. Moreover, we have A-list tutors to help you achieve your goal, including understanding more English abbreviations. Contact us for more information.