You’re texting a friend when they use the term TMI, and you aren’t sure what it means. TMI is an acronym commonly used in text conversations and online, but sometimes you can also hear it spoken in conversation.
What does TMI mean?
TMI is an acronym for the words “too much information,” and it is used when someone wants to warn you that they are about to give you more information than you asked for. In most cases, the information provided is personal, weird, or gross in nature.
It can also be used to acknowledge that something someone has already said was too much information and that you didn’t like the information or want to know it.
TMI is so popular that you can often hear it being used in conversation in place of the words it represents. Unlike most acronyms, TMI can be used in casual and professional situations.
How to use TMI
- “This might be TMI, but I think…”
- “Sorry, that was TMI.”
- “Ew, that was TMI, mom I don’t need to know about your bodily functions!”
- “TMI, but I’ve been sick all morning.”
- “Well, that was TMI.”
- TMI can be used anytime you are providing someone with details about your life that they didn’t ask for.
Using TMI the right way
TMI is an easy acronym to use as long as you are typing/saying it before you mention the embarrassing or gross information. It can also be used after the information is provided, but this is less common and normally more of an apology.
TMI Variations
Currently, TMI has no known variations.
Should you worry about your child using TMI?
TMI is considered a harmless texting term, and you probably don’t have to worry about your child using it. If you frequently notice your child using acronyms, however, and this worries you, then you may want to take a look at their online activity and ensure the people they are conversing with are appropriate for their age group.