ILD

What Does ILD Mean in a Text?

ILD means "Ich Liebe Dich," which is a German phrase meaning "I Love You" in English. Whilst saying "I Love You" in English is usually indicative of very strong romantic affection, the use of the abbreviation ILD between English speakers should not always be taken literally. In English, the abbreviation ILD is more likely to be used to show affection, rather than actual love.

Between German speakers, the abbreviation ILD usually expresses deep, romantic affection. A more platonic affection would more normally be expressed by the abbreviation HDL, which translates in English as "Love You" and which is more appropriately used between friends.

Image for ILD

When I write ILD, I mean this:

meaning of ILD

"Ich Liebe Dich"

Summary of Key Points

"Ich Liebe Dich (I Love You)" is the most common definition for ILD on Snapchat, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
ILD
Definition:Ich Liebe Dich (I Love You)
Type:Abbreviation
Guessability:guessability level 5
5: Extremely difficult to guess
Typical Users:typical user

Adults and Teenagers

Examples of ILD in Sentences

Here are examples of ILD being used in conversations:
  • Teri: You are the light of my life. My reason for living.
  • Dave: ILD.
  • Sarah: Missing you already. ILD.
  • Tom: Thanks. I love you too.

An Academic Look at ILD

ILD is an initialism abbreviation. Technically, this means it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., Eye Ell Dee). However, it is not often uttered using its letters, as it is used for efficiency in writing and not efficiency in speech. Between native German speakers, the abbreviation ILD is likewise only used in writing.

The abbreviation ILD is normally used as a standalone declarative sentence (i.e., a statement) with the meaning "Ich Liebe Dich." ILD is not often used as another part of speech within a wider sentence.

What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?

Before the digital era, we would have just said "I Love You" instead of ILD.

Example of ILD Used in a Text

ILD
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