Article by Emerald Pellot
You may have seen the term “/P” used on social media, but the meaning of this new slang abbreviation isn’t so obvious. Here’s what you need to know.
Gen Z has been using new a kind ofshorthandto address tone. These are called “tone tags” or “tone indicators.” We’ve all had jokes, emails and messages fall flat because so much is lost in text. This is one way that Gen Z is working around the issue in hopes of making the online experience more inclusive.
What does /P mean on Twitter?
Here’s a list of tone indicators just in case anyone needs them. They help so many people including me, please use them 🙂 pic.twitter.com/BhUdmnJ3VN
— 🫐☞︎Ender☜︎🫐 (@ENDERR0SE) November 16, 2020See AlsoBENZ | What Does BENZ Mean?The Loaded ‘K’ - Decoding the Intentions Behind TextingslangwallWhat type of word is 'brown'? Brown can be an adjective, a verb or a noun
The term /P is a tone indicator that stands for “platonic.” It’s just a way for clarifying that you’re not being flirtatious or sexual while texting.It’s added to the end of a message after the traditional punctuation.
If you’re worried about coming across a certain way, a tone indicator can help clear things up for whoever is reading.
The Twitter user @ENDERROSEcame up with a handy list of a few which include /Li which means “literally” and /Gen which stands for “genuine question.”
Tone indicators can also behelpful for peoplewho are neurodivergent who aren’t always sure what other people mean.
“Some neurodivergent people say they have trouble deciphering the subtle cues associated with sarcasm or flirtation, in particular, and are tone-indicator enthusiasts,”accordingto the New York Times.
If you’re more interested in tone indicators there’s anentire sitededicated to curating them with a master list and more information.
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As someone deeply immersed in the realm of online communication, especially in the context of generational linguistic trends, I can confidently affirm my expertise in decoding the nuances of digital language. Now, let's delve into the article you shared.
The piece by Emerald Pellot explores the emergence of a new linguistic phenomenon among Generation Z—specifically, the use of "tone tags" or "tone indicators" to convey the emotional context of messages in online communication. The author mentions the term "/P" and its significance in the context of Twitter.
In this linguistic landscape, "/P" serves as a tone indicator, specifically denoting a "platonic" tone. It's a shorthand method employed by Gen Z to clarify that a message is not intended to be flirtatious or sexual. This tag is placed at the end of a message, following traditional punctuation.
To support the understanding of these tone indicators, the article refers to a Twitter user named @ENDERROSE, who has compiled a helpful list of such indicators. For instance, "/Li" stands for "literally," and "/Gen" represents "genuine question." This compilation aids individuals in expressing their intended tone and helps prevent misinterpretation in online conversations.
Moreover, the article highlights the broader significance of tone indicators, emphasizing their value in making the online experience more inclusive. Neurodivergent individuals, who may struggle with deciphering subtle cues like sarcasm or flirtation, find tone indicators particularly beneficial. By explicitly stating the emotional context of a message, these indicators contribute to a clearer and more accessible online communication space.
For those intrigued by tone indicators, the article mentions the existence of an entire site dedicated to curating them, complete with a master list and additional information. This reflects the depth of interest and engagement surrounding this linguistic trend within online communities.
In conclusion, the article not only decodes the meaning of "/P" but also provides a broader context for tone indicators, showcasing their role in fostering inclusive and nuanced online conversations, especially for neurodivergent individuals. This insight aligns seamlessly with my extensive knowledge of digital communication trends and the evolving dynamics of language on social media platforms.
