What Does TBH Mean? A Complete Guide to Text Slang (2026)

The first time I saw “TBH” in a text, I stared at my phone, completely confused. Was it a typo? Some secret code?

I soon realized it was just one of those common text slang terms everyone seems to use effortlessly.

If you’ve ever wondered what TBH means and how to use it without looking clueless, you’re in the right place.

Quick Answer: TBH means “To Be Honest.”

It’s a friendly and casual way of sharing your honest thoughts or feelings in a conversation.

🧠 What Does TBH Mean in Text?

TBH is short for “To Be Honest.” It’s used to express your true feelings, opinions, or thoughts, often in a casual or friendly way. Think of it as a way to preface honesty without sounding harsh.

Example:

TBH, I think that movie was a bit boring 😅

In short: TBH = To Be Honest = sharing honest thoughts casually.

📱 Where Is TBH Commonly Used?

TBH is everywhere in casual texting and online chatting. Here’s where you’ll see it most:

Snapchat 💌 often in streaks or responses
TikTok 🎵 in comments or captions
Instagram 📸 DMs or story replies
Gaming chats 🎮 casual honesty among friends
Text messages 📱 day-to-day conversations

Tone: Casual, friendly, and social-media–friendly. Not suitable for formal or professional settings.

💬 Examples of TBH in Conversation

Here are some realistic chat examples:

Example 1:
A: Did you like my drawing?
B: TBH, it’s really good! 😄

Example 2:
A: I might skip the party tonight.
B: TBH, I was thinking the same 😅

Example 3:
A: What do you think of my new haircut?
B: TBH, looks amazing! 💇‍♀️

Example 4:
A: I’m nervous about the exam.
B: TBH, you’ll do great, don’t worry! 👍

Example 5:
A: Should I try this recipe?
B: TBH, I think it’s worth a shot! 🍳

Example 6:
A: I didn’t understand the joke.
B: TBH, neither did I 😂

🕓 When to Use and When Not to Use TBH

✅ When to Use TBH:

With friends and peers
In casual or social media chats
When sharing honest opinions
To sound approachable and friendly

❌ When Not to Use TBH:

In formal work emails
During serious conversations
In professional or urgent situations
When honesty could hurt someone unnecessarily

Comparison Table:

Context	Example Phrase	Why It Works
Friend Chat	“TBH, you’re amazing 😄”	Casual & friendly
Work Chat	“I think we should review this section.”	Polite & professional
Email	“Please review the attached document.”	Formal & clear

🔄 Similar Slang Words or Alternatives

Slang	Meaning	When to Use
IMO	In My Opinion	Casual, friendly chats
IDK	I Don’t Know	Casual, honest response
FYI	For Your Information	Informative, neutral tone
IRL	In Real Life	Social media, online chatting
FWIW	For What It’s Worth	Giving honest advice casually

❓ FAQs:

Q1: Can TBH be used in professional chats?
A: Generally, no. TBH is casual and best for friendly or social conversations.

Q2: Is TBH flirty?
A: Sometimes! People often use TBH to give compliments or share feelings, which can have a flirty tone.

Q3: Do I always have to use TBH at the start of a sentence?
A: Not always. You can place it wherever it makes sense to emphasize honesty.

Q4: Is TBH understood worldwide?
A: Mostly in English-speaking countries and online communities, but social media has made it globally recognizable.