H2IK

What Does H2IK Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

H2IK means "Hell If I Know."

More Observations...

It is an abbreviation used to mean "I don't know." It is typically used to express complete ignorance of the subject being discussed. When used between friends, H2IK may indicate a strong lack of interest. However, when used in a work environment, it usually indicates a lack of knowledge. The abbreviation H2IK originates from the TV show Defying Gravity. As explained in the show, it can be used to appear as though you're giving a technical explanation when you actually don't know what you're talking about. If someone familiar with the term hears it, H2IK can be considered a request for help. For example:

Boss: Why Isn't this programme working yet?
IT Geek1 (Bluffing): It's an H2IK issue.
IT Geek 2 (Jumping in): Yes, I've had a look, as you asked, and it seems to be an issue with the updates.
IT Geek 1: Thanks, just as I thought. I will have that fixed in no time.

Of note, H2IK is identical in meaning to the abbreviation HTHSIK ("How The Hell Should I Know").

Image for H2IK

When I write H2IK, I mean this:

H2IK means I really don't know.

Summary of Key Points

We have summarized the key points in the table below:

H2IK
Definition:	Hell If I Know (see also HIIK)
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	3: Guessable
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of H2IK in Sentences

Here are examples of H2IK in conversations:

Maria: What would you like for dinner?
Steph: H2IK.
Maria: Wow, okay, calm down, I was only asking.

Owen: How many blades of grass are there in your garden?
Anna: H2IK! What a stupid question.

An Academic Look at H2IK

H2IK is a proverbial phrase, a variant of "Damned if I know" meaning "I have no idea." A proverbial phrase or a proverbial expression is a saying that becomes widely known through word of mouth. The phrase and expression differ because while a proverb is a fixed expression, a proverbial phrase allows alterations to fit the grammar of the context. H2IK is defined as an "internet slang term" by our team because some of its characters are used as substitutes for letters. Most "slang terms" were introduced to reduce the number of key strokes required to write the word, but since the arrival of predictive texting and keyboards on mobile devices, this efficiency is no longer required. Nevertheless, "slang terms" are still regularly used to make messages more entertaining or to express individuality. "Slang terms" differ from icons because they are not pictorial representations.