What does 'ily' mean? Show your loved ones you care with this text abbreviation.

When you're messaging a friend or loved one, you may have a lot to say. As much as you want to text paragraphs, sometimes it's easier to keep it short and sweet.

That's where abbreviations and slang come in to help. There are so many ways to abbreviate what you want to say: "OTP" to "ttyl." "ICYMI", USA TODAY has been breaking down text slang. We've already covered various explainers on different phrases, such as "rizz" and "lmk".

Now, it's time to learn a new one. Here is the meaning and how to use "ily".  

What does 'ily' mean?

"ILY" stands for "I love you." The text slang is used in a more informal way than the full phrase. You can use "ily" while messaging friends, family or other loved ones, such as a significant other.

You can also choose to modify the abbreviation. Other variations include:

• "ilysm" - "I love you so much"
• "ly" - "love you"
• "lysm" - "love you so much"

In general, "ily" is used to express love, gratitude and appreciation toward another person no matter the conversation.

How to use 'ily'

Here are some examples of how to use "ily":

• "You're the best, ily!"
• "Thank you for the present, ilysm."
• "ttyl, ly!"

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Want to learn? Catch up on more text slang explainers: 

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• Ending a convo over text? Here's what 'TTYL' means and how to use it.
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• What does 'rizz' mean? Here's the definition of social media slang term and how to use it.
• What does 'WTV' mean? The definition of the texting abbreviation, plus how to use it.
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• What does 'idk' mean? What the texting slang means and how to use in conversation.
• What does 'mid' mean? Here's what the internet slang term means and how to use it.
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