Did someone just type “RQ” in the chat? What does it mean? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this acronym.
Meaning
The acronym “RQ” stands for “Real Quick.” You’ll use it online when you’re telling people you’ll be right back or if you want to emphasize the need for speed in a decision or reply from someone else. You could tell someone to give you their opinion “RQ” or say that you’re going somewhere “RQ.”
The phrase can also mean “Rage Quit.” If you’re playing an online game and someone unexpectedly takes you out of the match, the player may throw a temper tantrum and rage quit the game. Rage quitting is the subject of many hilarious viral videos on Tik Tok and YouTube.
You’ll find this term on social media sites and communications and texting apps and message boards like Reddit. It’s a way of shortening the words “Real Quick” so you don’t have to type as many characters in your message.
Example Usage
“Oh no, guys, my mom is calling me to take out the trash. I better do that, RQ; I’ll BRB, don’t give up my spot.”
“Check out my fit RQ. What do you think? I think this new hoodie is fresh. I got it on sale a Gucci for 25% off.”
“Listen, wait here. I’m gonna go find out what’s going on, RQ. If I’m not back in ten minutes, wait another ten minutes.”
“Let’s head to the mall RQ. I want to check out that new store and see if they have any sweet pants. We can grab a taco at the food court after.”
“Hold my beer RQ. I’m going to throw this football for 40-yards and show you I’ve gotta better arm than Tom Brady.”
“Keep my spot in line; I’m going to the bathroom, RQ. I’ll be back in a minute, don’t let people push you around!”
“Pull into the McDonald's drive-thru RQ. I want a cheeseburger and fries, and get me a Coke with that.”
“Check online RQ to see if there are tickets available. Last I looked, they were selling out fast, so we better buy them now.”
Origin
The acronym “RQ” has unknown origins. However, experts believe the expression originates from text messaging sometime after 2007. The earliest entry of RQ into the Urban Dictionary traces back to 2005 when it has the definition of being an instant messenger term abbreviating the words “real quick.”
The term spread along with other acronyms like “AFK” and “BRB,” allowing users t abbreviate their texts to type less and send messages faster. It’s still a common abbreviation in text messaging and has plenty of reach across social media platforms and communications.
Phrases Similar to RQ
- Be right back (BRB).
- Away from Keyboard (AFK).
Phrases Opposite to RQ
- Take your time.
- No rush.
What is the Correct Saying?
- RQ.
- rq.
Ways People May Say RQ Incorrectly
The acronym “RQ” is not suitable for use in professional communications like email writing, and it’s not ideal for telling your manager that you’re leaving your post for a short period. When you’re using the abbreviation online, there is no need to capitalize the letters when typing it out, as other people will understand what you mean by typing it in lower case.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase RQ
You can use the abbreviation “RQ” in a text conversation or when speaking to other people in real life or on the phone. You’ll use “RQ” as a short form of saying “real quick.” You can use it when telling someone that you’ll complete a task or action fast or when you’re saying that you’ll return from an errand quickly.
The phrase only suits social use, and it’s unsuitable for professional communications. You can type “RQ” in a chat to let the other users know you’re “away from keyboard” (AFK) or in a text message to let the other person know you’ll reply to them in a minute.