IJ

What Does IJ Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

IJ means "I'm Joking."

More Observations...

The abbreviation IJ indicates that a comment was meant as a joke. It is often used to take the edge off a frank comment that may not have been well received. For example:

• Mike: I think your hair looked better before you went to the salon.
• Sue: What?!
• Mike: IJ. It looks great.

Image for IJ

When I write IJ, I mean this:

IJ is typically used when the joke isn't obvious.

Summary of Key Points

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

IJ
Definition:	I'm Joking
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	4: Difficult to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of IJ in Sentences

Here are examples of IJ in conversations:

• Jim: She said she wouldn't go out with you if you were the last man alive.
• Simon: Why would she say that?
• Jim: IJ. She's mad about you.

• Linda: Why does the boss want to see me?
• Helen: IJ. He doesn't really.

An Academic Look at IJ

IJ is an initialism abbreviation that means "I'm Joking." Technically, this means it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., Eye Jay). However, it is not often uttered using its letters. In other words, the abbreviation IJ 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 said something like "Just Teasing," "I Jest," or even just "I'm Joking" instead of using the abbreviation IJ.

Example of IJ Used in a Text

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