Picture this: You're messaging a friend or loved one and the conversation is going well. That is, until they use an abbreviation you've never seen before. Is this a spelling error, or is this supposed to mean something?
There's a whole list of slang and shorthand terms that many people use in their day-to-day communications. So much that USA TODAY has been breaking down various examples of text slang; from "ily" to "iykyk".
Some even stand for multiple things, like "rn" and "OP". That's why it's important to know the meaning and usage of each one. Now, it's time to learn another. Here is the definition of and how to use "ig."
What does 'ig' mean?
"IG" is shorthand for "I guess". It's used similar to the full phrase and can be seen in various digital settings, such as while texting or when posting on social media, such as on X (formerly known as "Twitter") or Facebook.
According to Dictionary.com, the usage of "guess" to estimate or suppose something derives from Middle English. "I guess" dates back to the 1600s when the phrase was used to "express moderate or ironic certainty."
Today, this definition still applies. But the phrase can also represent a connotation of snark, reluctance, skepticism or passive-aggressiveness.
"IG" is also used in conversation to abbreviate the social media platform Instagram.
How to use 'ig'
Here are some examples of how to use "ig":
- "It's your turn to do the dishes." "Fine, ig I'll do it now."
- "Did you see their soft-launch on IG?"
- "Do you want to come over later?" "Nah, I got plans. Sorry." "It's alright ig."
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Want to learn? Catch up on more text slang explainers:
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