In today’s fast-paced world of texting and digital communication, you might have come across the acronym WYLL. As you navigate through various messaging platforms and social media apps, it’s essential to stay updated with the latest slang terms and abbreviations.
So, what exactly does WYLL mean in texting? WYLL stands for “What You Look Like” and is often used in casual conversations when someone wants to know what the other person looks like. This shorthand term can be found on texting platforms, social media, and dating apps, making communication quicker and more efficient.
Let’s say you meet someone online and start talking to them. They might ask “WYLL?” as a way of getting a feel for what you look like before they meet up with you in person.
Let’s deep dive into WYLL a bit more, and explore the various ways it can be used in texting.
What Does WYLL Mean in Texting?
WYLL is an acronym widely used in texting, standing for “What You Looking Like?”. It’s typically utilised as an informal greeting in a playful or flirty manner. You might encounter this slang term on social media, instant messaging, and dating apps.
To give you some context, WYLL is commonly employed when speaking with someone new, and you want to learn what they look like. This acronym serves as a way to ask for a photo or description of the person you’re communicating with. Don’t be surprised if you come across WYLL on platforms like Snapchat and Tinder.
When you see WYLL in a text or chat, remember it’s a casual way to enquire about someone’s appearance. Keep in mind that this slang term is more suited to informal situations and should be used with discretion.
Origin and Popularity
WYLL is used predominantly in texting and on various social media platforms, such as Snapchat and TikTok. You might encounter WYLL on dating apps, where people are naturally curious about each other’s appearance. It is a shorthand way to ask about someone’s physical appearance without resorting to a full question. Keep in mind that using WYLL might be considered somewhat playful or flirty in context.
Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook may also see some usage of WYLL, but it is more common on apps where direct messaging and anonymity are more prevalent. In any case, do remember that WYLL is a slang term and may not be appropriate in every conversation or with every individual.
Using WYLL on Different Platforms
WYLL on Social Media Platforms
When engaging on social media platforms like Snapchat and TikTok, you may encounter the acronym “WYLL”, which stands for “What You Look Like?”1. Since it is a casual slang term, you can use it in light-hearted conversations with friends or acquaintances. Keep your questions and responses short when using WYLL to prevent misunderstandings.
WYLL in Text Conversations
In text messaging and chat apps such as WhatsApp, WYLL is an efficient and straightforward way to ask about someone’s appearance2. Utilise this abbreviation in informal scenarios where you are getting to know someone new, but remember to be respectful with your inquiries. As you become familiar with using WYLL, you’ll find it easier to integrate within your casual text conversations.
WYLL on Dating Apps
Dating apps like Tinder are common places to see WYLL in action3. When chatting with potential matches, it is acceptable to use this term out of curiosity or to confirm compatibility based on physical attraction. However, exercise caution when requesting pictures or revealing your own appearance to ensure safety and maintain comfort levels with new acquaintances.
Context and Usage
Requesting a Picture or Photo
When someone uses WYLL in texting, it is often used to inquire about your appearance or to ask for a picture or photo of you in casual conversations on texting platforms, social media, and dating apps. When you receive a message with WYLL, it’s likely that the person is curious about your looks and wants to see a visual representation of you.
Using Bitmojis
In addition to an actual photo, you can use tools like Bitmoji to create a personalised avatar to respond to a WYLL request. Bitmojis provide a fun, customisable substitute for a photo and can help you maintain your privacy or anonymity while satisfying the other person’s curiosity. They can convey a general idea of your appearance without having to disclose an actual photograph or personal information about yourself.
How to Respond to WYLL?
The appropriate response to WYLL depends on your comfort level and the question’s context.
Here are some suggestions on how to respond:
- If you’re comfortable sharing your appearance, you can provide a brief description of your physical attributes. Be honest and concise.
- You can choose to share a photo of yourself if you feel at ease doing so.
- If you don’t want to answer the question or feel it’s inappropriate, politely decline to respond or change the subject to something you’re more comfortable discussing.
Here are three sample conversation exchanges where the first person uses WYLL:
Example 1
Person A: Hey, we’ve been chatting for a while now, and I’m curious, WYLL?
Person B: Hi, sure! I have brown hair, green eyes, and I’m about 5’6″. Tell me about yourself too.
Example 2
Person A: I enjoyed getting to know you on this app! WYLL?
Person B: Glad you asked! Here’s a recent photo of me. [Sends photo] What about you? Can you share a picture?
Example 3
Person A: WYLL? I’m intrigued by your personality.
Person B: Thanks for your interest, but I’d rather not discuss my appearance – let’s focus on getting to know each other better instead. What are your hobbies?
Related Slang Terms in Texting
Let’s explore some other related slang terms that you might encounter in text messages and online conversations.
- TT: TT in texting means “Talk To”, as in telling someone to talk to another person about a particular topic
- IGHT: Short for ‘alright’, used to indicate agreement or to confirm that something is acceptable.
- TM: Stands for ‘Trust Me’, a phrase used to persuade someone to believe in what you’re saying or to assure them of the certainty of a statement.
