Slang abbreviations have taken over the digital world and made it so quick to finish up conversations with barely anything official—a top abbreviation being “WTM.”
Depending on context, it could mean three things: what’s the matter?; what’s the move?; whatever that means. WTM is sure to be encountered in text messages, on Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and across any other social media platforms.
In this article, we discuss their meaning, give examples of how they are used, and underline why the context is indispensable to understand what the meaning of WTM a person means.
Key Highlights
- WTM has three meanings – What’s the Matter, What’s the Move and Whatever that Means
- It is used in different ways based on Context, it also has a different meaning on each social media platform.
- There are also underrated meanings of WTM which are not popularly used such as WTM could also mean Windows Task Manager.
What Does WTM Mean In Text?
The big idea of the article is about what WTM means in text; we go through the three major ways this abbreviation finds its place in conversations. ‘WTM’ is not something you’d say at work or at school; instead, it’s a very casual thing to be used best when texting or chatting up on social media.
1. What’s the Problem? 🤨
WTM actually stands for “What’s the matter?” mainly, the meaning of which is used in various contexts. In most conversations, when some person seems disturbed or out of sorts. It’s used to ask what could be bothering someone or if something is wrong.
Example
Let’s see how the above principles work in real conversation.
- Claire sighed, “I just need a day off today.
- John: “Not again, Claire, WTM?”
In the case above, John reaches out to Claire, who sounds really concerned, and asks her about problems. The WTM used in this place therefore is an effective way to be empathetic in the text toward showing concern.
When to use “What’s the Matter? WTM should be used when:
- Someone you’re messaging appears to be feeling down, frustrated, or unlike their usual cheerful self.
- You notice a change in someone’s texting habits or tone, and want to check in.
- Although this perhaps happens even more with friends or family, it can also occur with work colleagues or acquaintances in a less social context.
2. What’s The Move?
The other popular meaning of WTM is “What’s the move?” It can be a very easy and light question to determine someone’s plans. Whether one is planning on weekend activities with friends or one will simply be curious about what other people are doing, WTM can slide nicely into those inquiries.
Example
You are in a group chat, making plans for this weekend; you could say:
- You: Guys, WTM for Friday night?
It is used with WTM in this context: “What’s the move?” or “What’s the plan?” It is an easy way to get started on plans and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
When would one say, “What’s the move? Use WTM in this context when:
- You always want to know what the friends or family have in store for that day or night.
- You are trying to make plans for a hangout and need to figure out the next move.
- To make plans with someone or decide something. In a friendly, social setting.
3. Whatever That Means 🙄
The third meaning for WTM is “Whatever that means.” In case, the term usually reflects when the speaker is not clear or the association of the term with the prevailing context. It can be used seriously-when utterly confused-or with a tint of sarcasm-when there is no interest whatsoever in knowing more about the subject.
If someone texts you something fairly complex and you aren’t able to understand it, you may respond:
- He added, “Quantum computing is going to change everything in technology.”.
- You: “Yea WTM.”
Here, you acknowledge the statement without being engaged or entirely understanding what was said, in which case WTM lets you move the conversation along without necessarily going into detail.
When to Use “Whatever That Means.” This is where WTM can be put to use:
- It was made to explain quite complex matters.
- You do not care to question him further on that.
- You’re employing sarcasm regarding a subject that fails to capture your interest.
This version of WTM is commonly used when a person is overloaded with technicalities, useless trivia, and overly complex descriptions.
WTM Meaning in Online Social Media
WTM is thrown around on so many social media platforms and messaging apps. Below is how it looks in the most popular ones:
SnapChat.
WTM, of course, one uses on Snapchat to ask “What’s the move?” because, well, it’s a place for relaxed, casual communication between friends. You’re snapping back and forth, trying to find out what your friends are up to, and WTM fits in.
On Instagram, this could be applied in all three contexts, especially under DMs or comments on a friend’s post. By this, one would say, for instance, while commenting on a friend’s touching story or post: “WTM?”-this gets their well-being across.
TikTok.
Comments on TikTok are very often slang-filled, and WTM is no exception. Sometimes a creator on TikTok would post something funny but confusing, and you come across a comment, “Haha, WTM,” trying to show disbelief or confusion.
How to Respond to WTM
Since WTM can mean many things, it’s important that your answer fits within the context of the conversation. Here’s how to respond based on the three meanings:
1. If WTM Is What’s the matter?
If someone asks you WTM in this case, that means they care about you. You can answer by saying what’s wrong or that it’s all good.
Example:
- Friend asked, “You’ve been quiet lately, WTM?”
- Me: “Meh, just feelin’ a little down. Thanks for checking in.”.
2. If WTM Is What’s the move?
If someone texts you WTM asking about your plans, here is how you can respond.
Examples:
- Friend: “WTM for tonight?
- You say, “Shall we check out that new downtown restaurant?
3. If WTM Is Whatever That Meant
If someone uses WTM as an expression of confusion or sarcasm, one can explain his or her point or just play along with the joke.
Example:
- Your buddy said, “The new update changes the user interface, WTM, altogether.”
- You said, “Basically, it’s a mess, but you’ll get used to it!”
Other Definitions of WTM
Some other meanings of WTM also exist. Although these are less popular and somtimes only used by specific groups of people or in particular situations. WTM may also mean/stand for:
- Winner Takes Most: Used in gaming or competitions.
- Windows Task Manager: Especially in computer-related discussions.
- World Travel Market: In the travel industry or business context
- Woman to Man: Within a unique social or relational context.
These meanings are not popular, though they would be useful to know in case a specialized discussion is needed.
Conclusion
WTM is such a versatile acronym, in a way having three main meanings: What’s the matter?, What’s the move?, and Whatever that means.
The context of the conversation is going to pin down which meaning is being used. Whether checking in on a friend, making plans for the weekend, or stating confusion, WTM finds a home in your texting vocabulary.
Knowing the subtle niceties of when and how to use WTM better arms you with how to communicate, and keep up with today’s texting slang. So, next time WTM crops up in a chat, just hang back a moment and take in the mood—and the conversation—prior to working out what it stands for.
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What Does RS Mean on Snapchat?
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