What Does * Mean?
Using an Asterisk in Texting
The asterisk (*) is a small and seemingly simple symbol, but it has an impressive array of uses. It features in mathematics, computer programming, university dissertations, and normal language. Here, we're going to look at how it's used in texting and online chat, where it has two main uses:
(1) Correcting Spelling
Using an asterisk to indicate a spelling correction is probably its most universally understood use across different age groups and platforms. It's become such standard internet etiquette that most people immediately understand when someone sends a single word with an asterisk - they're fixing something they just said wrong. For example:- Jo: I am seeing the doctor tomorrow for my anal exam.
- Jo: *annual! 🤦🏽
- Sam: 🤣🤣
(2) Censoring Swear Words
Asterisks are also commonly used in texting to obscure or disguise swear words or offensive language. They allow writers to convey swear words without spelling them out fully. This helps them to maintain a level of propriety while still communicating the intended message. For example:- F*ck the world 😠
- You're a d*ck! 🍆
- Don't be such a c*ck 🙄
The Asterisk Has Two Main Uses in Texting
Summary of Key Points
The most popular use of an asterisk in text messaging is to indicate a spelling correction.| * | |
|---|---|
| Definition: | Spelling Correction |
| Type: | Symbol |
| Guessability: |  3: Guessable |
| Typical Users: |  Adults and Teenagers |
| * | |
|---|---|
| Definition: | Censoring Swear Words |
| Type: | Symbol |
| Guessability: |  1: Easy to guess |
| Typical Users: | Adults and Teenagers |
Example of * Used in a Text
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