IHS

What Does IHS Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

IHS means "I Hope So."

More Observations...

When used in text-based messaging, the abbreviation IHS is typically used with the meaning "I Hope So" in response to a question. It is a positive phrase that indicates an expectation or desire for something to happen or to have happened. IHS is also a Christian symbol, generally accepted to be an abbreviation of "Ihsous," the Greek name for Jesus.

Image for IHS

When I write IHS, I mean this:

Jesus, IHS.

Summary of Key Points

"I Hope So" is, by far, the most common meaning for IHS when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)

IHS
Definition:	I Hope So
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	4: Difficult to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of IHS in Sentences

Here are examples of IHS in conversations:

• James: We might be getting an extra day off at Christmas.
• Zoe: IHS. I'll be able to spend more time eating turkey.

• Will: I wonder if Steve booked the taxi for tonight?
• Harry: IHS. The buses stop running at 5pm.

An Academic Look at IHS

When used with the meaning "I Hope So," IHS is an initialism abbreviation. Technically, this means it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., Eye Ach Es). However, it is not often uttered using its letters. In other words, the abbreviation IHS is for efficiency in writing and not efficiency in speech.

What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?

Before the digital era, we might have just said "I Hope So" or something like "Fingers Crossed" instead of using IHS.

Example of IHS Used in a Text

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