TLDR

What Does TLDR Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

TLDR (Too Long Didn't Read) is typically sent in response to someone sending a lengthy article or asking for an opinion on a lengthy article.

More Detail...

It is often said that the length of a document is directly proportional to how quickly it's read. This has always been the case, but – particularly since the rise of the internet – people are no longer willing to read through lengthy texts. People expect to find the information they need instantly or to be entertained instantly. In other words, lengthy business articles and wordy jokes are far more likely to be ignored than summaries and cartoon-style jokes.

Image for TLDR

When I write TLDR, I mean this:

This image shows a girl looking a lengthy article that she has no intention of reading.

Summary of Key Points

"Too Long; Didn't Read" is, by far, the most common meaning for TLDR when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)

TLDR
Definition:	Too Long; Didn't Read
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	2: Quite easy to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of TLDR in Sentences

Here are some examples of TLDR in sentences:

• Charlie: Did you laugh at that story I sent yesterday?
• Jordan: Sorry, TLDR.

• Charlie: Do you have any comments on the draft before we submit it?
• Jordan: TLDR. I suppose that's a comment.

An Academic Look at TLDR

TLDR is a shortened version of "It was too long; I did not read it." TLDR represents two independent clauses separated by a semicolon (as opposed to a period / full stop) to show they are closely related. On occasion, the semicolon is included in the abbreviation. For example:

• Charlie: Well, I didn't expect that ending!
• Jordan: TL;DR.

TLDR is an initialism abbreviation. This means it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., Tee El Dee Arr). Initialisms contrast with acronyms, which are spoken like words. If TLDR were an acronym, it would be pronounced tilder.

Example of TLDR Used in a Text

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