WTD – Meaning, Origin and Usage

Do you want to check in with a friend to see what they’re up to? Are you confused about something you were told and want clarification? If so, sending a “WTD” will let the recipient know that you want some information from them. Maybe you are trying to negotiate with someone and want to know their final offer.

WTD is a quick way to get to the bottom of things. There are so many ways to use this phrase, and today, we will explore quite a few of them.

This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.

Meaning

The abbreviation “WTD” is a quick way of saying, “what’s the deal?” or “what to do” and is used primarily in text messaging. In some cases, it is used as a greeting that means, “What are you up to?” WTD can also be used to express confusion or request help, if used to mean “what to do.” For example, if you made a mistake and want a friend’s help, you may text them something like “Lost my keys. Not sure wtd.”

WTD is most often used in a friendly way when used to ask “what’s the deal,” but it also can be used to express exasperation. If someone says or does something rude or unexpected, people may comment or text "wtd" to convey the question, “What is wrong with you?” WTD also has a number of other, less common definitions, like “win the day” or “want to date,” but these are very unlikely to be used except for in specific contexts.

Example Usage

“Wtd, up to anything fun tonight? ”

“I don’t understand our homework. Tell me wtd”.

“I thought you were gonna pick me up, wtd?”

“I don’t know wtd with you. You’ve been acting weird”.

“I’m free all weekend, but I don’t know wtd with my time”.

“Hey! I didn’t see you in class today, WTD? ”

“WTD with you two hanging out together yesterday?”

Origin

The phrase WTD started being used in the early 2000s and has become more popular in recent years. It was used as shorthand for “what’s the deal” and “what to do” in text and messenger communications. The abbreviation was used primarily to reduce the number of text characters in a message, as texting would cost more depending on the length of the texts sent.

Wtd was also used moderately when sms and texting were popular. Shorthand text allowed users to get the most out of each message without using up a lot of space. Internet slang has evolved and changed dramatically since its inception in the 1990s, especially with the development of social media platforms. Today, WTD is extremely popular to use on social media sites like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram.

Phrases Similar to WTD

  • WYU2, meaning “What are you up to?”
  • WWYD, meaning “What would you do?”
  • Are you okay?
  • Is everything alright?

Phrases Opposite to WTD

  • TTYL, which means “I will talk to you later.”
  • GTG, which means “Gotta go.”
  • BRB, which means “I’ll be right back.”

What is The Correct Saying?

  • Wtd? – What's the deal?
  • Wtd – What to do

Ways People May Incorrectly Say WTD

The phrase WTD is commonly used incorrectly due to its various potential meanings. It is essential to provide necessary context in order to ensure that you’re conveying your intended meaning, especially if you’re trying to use one of the less common definitions.

  • WTD bro, I am ready to finalize this sale.
  • Wtd, let’s get this party started.
  • The wtd of the day will be announced soon.

Acceptable Ways to Phrase WTD

  • Wtd with that crazy chick over there in the corner?
  • I am not sure where to look, wtd with losing your phone anyway?
  • Wtd, I told you what needed to be done last night and you still didn’t do it.
  • Hey man, wtd with those crates of peaches in the corner?

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