Slang 101: Decoding Teen Lingo ... A Guide for Parents
3Dots (…) refers to a concept in texting known as an ellipsis. This texting slang serves as an indication of a pause, hesitation, or thought trailing off. The ellipsis can be used when the sender is uncertain of something or when the thought or sentence isn’t completely finished, leaving room for further elaboration or interpretation.
Examples
- Person A: I can't believe that you would say…
- Person B: Say what? I haven't finished my sentence!
- Person A: You left it at an ellipsis. It means you were either pausing or hesitating to say something.
- Person B: I was just collecting my thoughts… No need for dramatic conclusions!
- John: Hey Alice, do you remember that blue car we passed yesterday...
- Alice: Yes, the one with the fancy rear lights?
- John: Yes, that's the one...
- Alice: What about it, John?
- John: I was just thinking...
- Alice: What? That you want one?
- John: Well, not exactly...
- John: Hey Mike, did you manage to get those concert tickets?
- Mike: Well, about that…
- John: Uh oh, what happened?
- Mike: I waited too long and by the time I went online to buy them…
- John: Let me guess, they were sold out.
- Mike: Exactly…
- John: Well, better luck next time…
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Guidelines on Discussing 3Dots with Children
- Educate yourself: Understand the principle behind the slang ‘3dots’ or ellipsis and its meaning in texting. This will help you have an informed conversation with your teen.
- Initiate a dialogue: Start a conversation about slang words in texting, which includes ellipses. Discuss its use and implications.
- Encourage open communication: Let your teen express how they feel about using slang and ellipsis in texting. Open communication helps to address any misunderstandings.
- Set boundaries: Make it clear that while slang like ellipses can be used in casual texting, it might not be appropriate in all contexts.
- Avoid judgment: Don’t criticize your teen’s use of slang but guide them towards using language appropriately.
- Discuss online etiquette: Explain the importance of being respectful and considerate when using slang and ellipses in digital communication.
Summary
To conclude, the article emphasizes the importance of understanding teen slang, specifically the use of 3Dots or an ellipsis. This concept serves to convey hesitation, pause, or an unfinished thought. By understanding this lingo, parents can foster better communication with their children. Hence, all parents are urged to stay updated on teen jargon continually.
Test How Well You Understand Teen Slang
What to do if you recognize your child's dangerous slang
Keyword alert is a feature in parental control apps designed to notify parents or guardians when specific words or phrases are detected in their child's online activity.
When triggered, the parental control app sends an alert to the parent's device, allowing them to promptly address any potential issues and ensure their child's online safety and well-being. We recommend adding slang related to drugs and sext to your keywords alert.
