Your Go-To Guide for Texting in French: Navigate Informal Communication and Abbreviations
Become fluent in French texting with our go-to guide!
Texting in French often involves informal communication characterized by the use of abbreviations, slang, and phonetic shortcuts to speed up typing and create a casual tone. These abbreviations commonly drop accents, silent letters, and sometimes entire syllables or words. Here are key points and popular abbreviations used in informal French texting:
Common Characteristics of Informal French Texting
- Skipping accents and silent letters to save time (e.g., “sa va” instead of “ça va”).
- Using all lowercase letters mostly for speed.
- Phonetic spellings and numbers replace sounds (e.g., “2” for “de,” “1” for “ain”).
- Final letter repetition for emphasis (e.g., “merciii”).
- Frequent use of emojis to convey emotion or tone.
- Contraction of common phrases by dropping words or parts (e.g., “t’inquiète” becomes “tkt”).
Popular French Texting Abbreviations & Slangs
| Abbreviation | Full phrase | Meaning / English equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| mdr | mort de rire | LOL, laughing out loud |
| tkt | t’inquiète | Don’t worry |
| d’acc | d’accord | Okay, agreed |
| att | attends | Wait |
| a+ | à plus tard | See you later |
| cc | coucou | Hi/Hey |
| slt | salut | Hi/Hello |
| bjr | bonjour | Hello |
| bcp | beaucoup | A lot/much |
| pk | pourquoi | Why |
| jsp | je sais pas | I don’t know |
| qql | quelqu’un | Someone |
| stp/svp | s’il te plaît / s’il vous plaît | Please |
| jsuis/chuis | je suis | I am |
| c | c’est | It’s |
| prcq/pcq | parce que | Because |
| oui | ouais | Yeah |
Examples in Use
- Tkt, ça va bien. — Don’t worry, it’s all good.
- D’acc, on se voit demain ? — Okay, see you tomorrow?
- Att, je réponds. — Wait, I’ll reply.
- A+! — See you later!
- Mdr, c’est trop drôle. — LOL, that’s really funny.
Tips for Texting Informally in French
- Use abbreviations freely to sound natural and casual.
- Incorporate emojis to express tone and emotion.
- Drop formal grammar, articles, and accents when possible.
- Use phonetic spellings and common shortcuts to speed up typing.
This style reflects how many French speakers text in everyday informal chats, especially among friends and younger generations, giving a relaxed and approachable tone to communication.