Text Like a Local: 13 German Abbreviations You Need to Know
In today’s fast-paced world, texting has become a universal mode of communication, transcending borders and languages. As we immerse ourselves in the German language, understanding German texting abbreviations and slang is crucial for not only keeping up with written conversations but also for gaining insight into the informal nuances of the language.
German, rich in expressions and efficiency, has its unique set of abbreviations that make texting quicker and reflect the language’s contemporary use, often not covered in traditional learning materials.
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In this blog, we present to you 13 key German texting abbreviations that are indispensable for anyone looking to communicate effectively in German texts. These phrases will not only speed up your texting but also deepen your understanding of the German language as it is used today.
1. HDGDL (Hab dich ganz doll lieb)
Translates to “I love you very much”, but it’s not necessarily a romantic phrase. It is most commonly used among friends in a more platonic sense.
HDGDL, bis morgen!
“Love you lots, see you tomorrow!”
2. LG (Liebe Grüße)
This German texting abbreviation means “best regards,” and it’s used to sign off messages in a friendly manner.
LG, Jonas
“Best regards, Jonas”
3. KK (Kein Kommentar)
Much like “No comment”, “KK” is used to indicate that no further comment is necessary or to decline to answer.
KK, dazu sage ich nichts.
“No comment, I won’t say anything about that.”
4. WG (Wohngemeinschaft)
While not specifically a German texting abbreviation (it’s also used in spoken conversation), WG is a common way to refer to shared housing or flatmates.
Ich suche eine WG in Berlin.
“I’m looking for a shared flat in Berlin.”
5. DNR (Das nächste Mal)
Das nässte Mal, or DNR, means “Next time”, and it’s used to refer to future actions or plans.
DNR, machen wir das anders.
“Next time, we’ll do it differently.”
6. ZB (Zum Beispiel)
“ZB” stands for “for example.”
Es gibt viele Sehenswürdigkeiten, ZB das Brandenburger Tor.
“There are many sights to see, for example, the Brandenburg Gate.”
7. OMW (On my way)
While Germans are very proud of their language, they do not hesitate to borrow phrases from English if they find them useful. So don’t be surprised to see “OMW” used by Germans exactly like in English, to indicate that someone is en route.
OMW, bin in 5 Minuten da.
“On my way, will be there in 5 minutes.”
8. VLLT (Vielleicht)
“Maybe” or “perhaps,” used to indicate uncertainty or the possibility of something happening.
Vllt gehen wir später ins Kino.
“Maybe we’ll go to the cinema later.”
9. Eig (Eigentlich)
“Actually,” used to clarify or add information to a statement.
Ich hätte eig Zeit für ein Treffen.
“I would actually have time for a meeting.”
10. WE (Wochenende)
This is the most common German texting abbreviation for “Weekend”.
Hast du Pläne fürs WE?
“Do you have plans for the weekend?”
11. KP (Kein Problem)
“No problem,” used to express that something is not an issue or to reassure someone.
KP, ich kann warten.
“No problem, I can wait.”
12. KA (Keine Ahnung)
“No clue,” used when someone doesn’t know the answer to a question.
Ka, wo das ist.
“No clue where that is.”
13. BM (Bis Morgen)
“See you tomorrow,” the most common German texting abbreviation among coworkers and classmates.
Schönen Abend noch, bm!
“Have a nice evening, see you tomorrow!”
So, there you go. 13 common German texting abbreviations that people use to express love, greet one another, or just say “See you later”. Understanding these abbreviations is a leap towards mastering the modern German used daily by millions of speakers and participating in everyday conversations naturally and confidently.
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At Listen & Learn, we believe in diving deep into the language you’re learning, beyond just the formalities. Our courses are designed to connect you with native German speakers, offering an authentic learning experience that covers the essentials and beyond, including texting abbreviations and slang. Learning German with Listen & Learn (no matter if you choose in-person German courses or online German lessons) is not just about textbook grammar; it’s about embracing the language as it’s spoken today, in all its richness and complexity.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact Listen & Learn now and let us make your language-learning journey exciting, practical, and deeply enriching.