A study found using abbreviations like “LOL” and “OMG” in text messages can make you seem insincere. Researchers tracked text exchanges of more than 5,000 people, and found we’re seen as less sincere when we use shorthand phrases like “LOL” and “OMG.” The researchers were surprised. They assumed most people were cool with those abbreviations, because they seem friendlier and less formal. But it turns out they can make people feel like you don’t really care. If you want someone to know you really did find something funny, you’re better off using full words. Instead of “LOL,” say something like, “I’m cracking up.”
Context is important too, and it matters less if you already have a close relationship with the person. For example, using “LOL” with your best friend lands differently than using it with someone you just started dating.
99% of people in the study said they use abbreviations in their texts sometimes. So it’s something that pretty much everyone does now.