It’s late at night, and you’ve been up for hours chatting with one of your friends that you might have feelings for, but aren’t quite sure yet. Or perhaps a family member did you a huge favor and you need to thank them. A great way to express yourself is with “ilysm”. It lets the other person know just how you feel without having to go into intense detail. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The shorthand “ILYSM” is a quick way of saying, “I love you so much”. The abbreviation is most often used in text and online messaging. More often than not, it is used as a way to express gratitude or show a little bit of love towards someone.
ILYSM can also, though rarely, be used sarcastically. It is more commonly used as a form of sincere thanks or when expressing your love and appreciation to someone. It is also fairly common to have the phrase followed by an emoji, typically a happy, romantic, or silly one.
Given that it is slang, ILYSM does not necessarily fit in the context of actual, true love when communicating with another individual. It’s better used when expressing gratitude and thanks towards friends, family, or other people you are closer with. But can be used as a form of flattery when chatting with individuals.
Example Usage
- Have a great day, babe! ilysm!
- Thanks for getting me some food. ILYSM!!!. 🙂
- Dude, ilysm. I’m glad we’re friends.
- You actually finished everything on the list? ilysm, sis.
- Thanks for saving me. XD
- Hey, I really like you. Ilysm.
- Just so you know, ilysm. <3
Origin
Like many acronyms and phrases, the origins of ILYSM can be traced back to the early internet and cell phone era. According to Urban Dictionary, the phrase started to become popular in 2003. In order to not exceed the character limit in text messages, ILYSM became a popular way of expressing oneself when communicating with friends and family.
Phrases Similar to ILYSM
- ILY which means “I love you”.
- ILY U 2!
- THX which means “thanks”.
- thx for your help.
- TYSM which means "thank you so much".
- You found my purse? tysm!!!
Phrases opposite to ILYSM
- STFU which is short for “Shut the fuck up”.
- PO which is short for “Piss(ed) off”.
What is The Correct Saying?
- ILYSM – I love you so much.
Ways People May Incorrectly Say ILYSM
ILYSM is a pretty easy phrase to understand and use but can still be used incorrectly. You should avoid using it when you are sincerely expressing your love for someone because it can come off as sarcastic or untrue. Serious situations tend to be more formal so that they come off as sincere and genuine. However, it is acceptable to use it when talking to your significant other over text or messaging as a true, albeit silly form of love. Basically, when used seriously it can come off as negative. But when used casually or in a silly manner, it is more genuine than just a regular ILY or THX.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase ILYSM
- If you are extremely grateful and want to show your appreciation to someone, using “ilysm” is an acceptable way to show your gratitude to them.
- If you really do care for your friends and loved ones, you can use “ilysm” as a way of showing that you do love them in a non-romantic way.
- If someone does something amazing and you are in awe, you can use “ilysm” as a form of appreciation and flattery.
- When someone does something that is flattering, you can respond with “ilysm” as a form of informal thanks.
- When you are short on time, texting “ilysm” to your child or partner is a great way to show affection.