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The ever-evolving world of TikTok brings with it a dynamic vocabulary that can be overwhelming to grasp. To help users navigate the app and its slang, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to understanding the most common words and abbreviations used on TikTok.
TikTok’s Soaring Popularity
Over the past year, TikTok has experienced unprecedented growth, captivating users worldwide with its engaging video-based content.
The platform has become a hub for sharing funny videos, offering tips and tricks, and participating in the latest trends.
As TikTok continues to evolve, so does its unique lexicon, which includes both platform-specific terms and broader internet slang.
Decoding TikTok Slang
To enhance your TikTok experience, here’s an in-depth breakdown of the most popular slang you’re likely to come across on the app.
While some of these terms may initially seem perplexing, we’ll provide clear explanations to ensure you’re well-equipped for future reference.
POV (Point Of View)
POV refers to a trend in which videos depict the viewer’s perspective in various situations.
TikTok users employ this format to create funny and relatable content, often drawing inspiration from everyday life. While some POV videos reflect mundane scenarios, others take a bizarre or nonsensical twist.
FYP (For You Page)
FYP stands for the “For You Page,” which is the default tab users see upon launching the TikTok app.
The FYP is personalized to each user’s interests, as TikTok’s sophisticated algorithm curates content based on their preferences.
When someone comments “FYP” on your video, it signifies that your video has made it to their feed, serving as an acknowledgment that your content is being seen by others.
PFP (Profile Picture)
PFP, an abbreviation used not only on TikTok but across various social media platforms, stands for “Profile Picture.”
It refers to the image or icon individuals set as their representation on the app.
PFPs have been utilized in trends like the Lana Cult and the Hamster Cult, facilitating the spread of trends and fostering connections among participants.
CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
While CEO traditionally denotes the highest-ranking corporate position, TikTok has given this term a new twist.
On social media, being referred to as a CEO signifies that you excel in a particular area or skill. It is often used as a compliment, although it can also be employed sarcastically.
Accountant
The term “accountant” gained popularity on TikTok when user Rocky Paterra posted a video explaining why he prefers telling people he’s an accountant instead of disclosing his aspirations as a struggling actor.
The soundbite used in this video went viral, leading to its adoption by creators with unconventional jobs, particularly those producing mature content.
This audio became a massive trend on the platform, with users frequently quoting it.
Ion
Often used as a contraction of “I don’t,” “ion” can also mean “In Other News,” with the former interpretation being more common on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter.
ASL
While ASL can refer to “American Sign Language,” it is also used as an acronym for “age, sex, location.” However, it is now increasingly employed as a contraction of the phrase “as hell.”
Mid
This term conveys mediocrity or poor quality, originally popularized on TikTok by a viral video featuring pro wrestler Maxwell Jacob Friedman, who humorously associated the Midwest region with averageness.
Pushin P
Originating from Atlanta rapper Gunna, “Pushin P” is a popular phrase in the Bay Area and Texas.
The “P” in “Pushin P” stands for “player” or “paper,” indicating keeping it real, risking for family, and helping others, while not involving oneself in unnecessary conflicts.
AS
On TikTok, “AS” can refer to the TV programming block Adult Swim, which became a trend in 2021.
Users created trailers or “bumps” inspired by the network, incorporating the [as] logo in their videos.
SA
“SA” on TikTok often refers to “sexual assault.” It is used as a way to prevent content potentially being flagged and to approach sensitive topics with care.
NP
“NP” commonly stands for “no problem” and is used in conversations to convey a lack of inconvenience or trouble. It is frequently seen in comment threads and replies on TikTok.
RMP
While “RMP” can have different meanings, it is sometimes used to refer to the website “Rate My Professor,” where students can rate their teachers online.
It can also mean “remind me please” or “read my profile,” depending on the context.
The Chair Emoji
The chair emoji took on a new meaning on TikTok when users were encouraged to use it instead of the laughing emoji. This inside joke spread across the app, confusing many users and leading to its widespread use in comment sections.
Moots
“Moots” is an abbreviation of “mutuals” and refers to people who follow each other on TikTok or other social media platforms. It signifies a mutual connection and is popular on TikTok as well as Twitter.
‘W’ and ‘L’
When used alone, “W” stands for “win” or “winner,” often used to compliment something or congratulate someone on their successes.
On the other hand, “L” stands for “lose” or “loser,” used to comment on failures or mistakes.
/hj
The term “/hj” is a tone indicator that means “half-joking.” It is used to clarify that while a statement is mostly a joke, there is an element of truth or seriousness to it.
Tone indicators are commonly used on TikTok and other platforms to clarify the intent behind a sentence.
As the world of TikTok continues to grow and evolve, so does its unique slang and jargon.
Understanding these popular terms and abbreviations will allow users to navigate the app more effectively and engage with the vibrant TikTok community.
By staying informed and up-to-date with the latest TikTok slang, users can fully immerse themselves in the platform’s trending content and participate in the ongoing conversation.
