The abbreviation “wys” has become a popular slang term used in text messages and on social media platforms like Snapchat. But what exactly does it mean?
The Meaning of “Wys”
“Wys” stands for “what you saying?” and is used informally to ask someone what’s up or what’s going on. It’s a casual way to initiate a conversation or check in on someone.
Here are some examples of how “wys” is used in conversations:
- Friend 1: Wys?
- Friend 2: Nm, just got home from school. Wbu?
- Friend 1: Same. Wys later? Wanna go to the mall?
So while “wys” literally means “what you saying,” it’s commonly understood to mean “what’s up?” or “what are you up to?”
The Origin of “Wys”
Like much slang, the origins of “wys” are difficult to pinpoint exactly. However, many trace its roots back to Black culture and AAVE (African American Vernacular English).
The phrase likely emerged organically from young people shortening the sentence “what you saying?” for convenience. Over time, it became a popular shorthand way for friends to casually check in on each other’s lives.
From inner-city neighborhoods, use of “wys” has now spread more mainstream, especially among youth and on social media apps like Snapchat.
How “Wys” Is Used on Snapchat
Snapchat has its own unique culture and slang. Users frequently pepper their Snaps and captions with insider abbreviations and phrases like “wys.”
People often start a Snapchat conversation with “wys” as a laidback greeting. For example, someone might send an image of themselves with the caption “Wys bro!” to a friend they haven’t Snapchatted in awhile.
“Wys” is also commonly used on Snapchat when someone wants a response from a friend who hasn’t replied to their previous Snaps. If it seems like their friend is ghosting them, a user might send a Snap saying “Wys???” to check if their friend is still there.
Additionally, Snapchatters use “wys” when asking friends what they’re up to that day or night. For instance: “Me and Sara are gonna get pizza later. Wys?”
So in the Snapchat world, “wys” serves multiple conversational purposes from saying hello to nudging unresponsive friends.
Variations in Spelling and Punctuation
When it comes to slang terms like “wys,” there are no hard rules for spelling or punctuation. Here are some of the most common variations:
- wys
- wys?
- wys!
- wyd (what you doing)
- wya (where you at)
Teens especially have created countless versions of “wys” by remixing letters, adding punctuation, and combining it with other shorthand.
The acronym “WYS” has multiple meanings and uses, which can vary based on the context in which it is employed. Here are the primary interpretations of “WYS”:
Whatever You Say
“WYS” is commonly used to mean “Whatever You Say,” which can be a form of agreement or, more often, a sarcastic or condescending response to a statement someone has made13.
What You Said
Another use of “WYS” is “What You Said,” which is a way to express agreement with someone’s statement, as if to say, “I agree with what you just said”13.
What You Saying?
When posed as a question, “WYS” can mean “What You Saying?” This is a casual and informal way of asking someone what they are doing or implying. It’s akin to saying “What’s up?” or “What are you up to?”123459.
What’s Your Status?
In gaming and online communities, “WYS” can also stand for “What’s Your Status?” This is a request for an update or information on someone’s current situation or activity36.
Usage in Text and Online Communication
“WYS” is predominantly used in informal contexts, such as texting, social media, and online gaming. It is not considered appropriate for formal writing due to its slang nature5. The acronym is part of the evolving language of digital communication, where brevity and speed are often prioritized.
Responding to “WYS”
Responses to “WYS” can vary depending on the intended meaning. If someone is asking “What You Saying?” in the sense of “What are you up to?”, a typical response might be an update on your current activities or plans. If “WYS” is used sarcastically as “Whatever You Say,” the response might be an acknowledgment or further clarification of the previous statement
Controversies Around Using “Wys”
While “wys” might seem harmless, some controversies have emerged around using this slang term:
Associations with “Roadman” Culture
In the UK, use of terms like “wys” and “wagwan” is closely tied to “roadman” culture – a controversial subculture associated with crime and violence. People debate whether the slang helps promote anti-social behavior.
Accusations of Cultural Appropriation
Some have accused non-Black people, like white teens, of culturally appropriating terms like “wys” that originated in Black culture. People argue youth should be more conscientious about co-opting slang.
Debates Around Proper English
Critics of slang like “wys” argue it promotes lazy English and informal dialects rather than proper language. However, linguists say slang is a creative use of language and part of cultural evolution.
So while “wys” has entered mainstream youth vocabulary, its widespread use remains contentious in certain respects.
The Future of “Wys” in Texting Slang
Will “wys” stand the test of time or be replaced by new shorthand? Slang terms come and go quickly, but “wys” has already demonstrated some staying power.
Its flexibility gives it an advantage. “Wys” can function as a greeting, question, or invitation to talk depending on the context. Youth also continue remixing it into new variations.
But only time will tell whether “wys” becomes an enduring piece of the texting slang lexicon. Currently, its usage shows no signs of slowing down, especially on fast-moving apps like Snapchat that lend themselves to informal abbreviations.
Wrapping up
So next time you see “wys” in a text or Snapchat caption, you’ll be in-the-know about its intended casual meaning. Understanding popular slang like “wys” can help you communicate effectively and avoid confusion with all those friends and followers!