Reference
Search a curated starter collection. Acronyms and initialisms are grouped separately from general abbreviations; the list is not exhaustive.
This is a finite curated collection. Each entry includes its source link and attribution/license notes.
As soon as possible; a request for prompt action, though its urgency depends on context.
“Please send the revised file ASAP.”
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Do it yourself; making, repairing, or decorating something without hiring a professional for that task.
“The guide includes a DIY shelf project.”
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For example; introduces one or more examples rather than a complete list.
“Bring a warm layer, e.g., a sweater or light jacket.”
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Estimated time of arrival; the expected time someone or something will arrive.
“The courier's ETA is 3 p.m.”
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And other similar things; use it only when the remaining items are clear from context.
“Pack a notebook, pens, a charger, etc.”
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Frequently asked question; the plural FAQs means a collection of common questions and answers.
“Check the FAQ before contacting support.”
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For your information; introduces something shared as useful context, not necessarily as a request.
“FYI, the meeting room has changed.”
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That is; restates or clarifies a point rather than giving a separate example.
“The route is closed, i.e., no vehicles can enter.”
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Postscript; an extra note added after the main body of a letter or message.
“P.S. I attached the agenda as well.”
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A request to reply to an invitation, usually to say whether you will attend.
“Please RSVP by Friday so we can confirm the table booking.”
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To be determined; indicates that a detail has not yet been decided.
“The location is TBD until the room is confirmed.”
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To be announced; indicates that a detail will be shared later.
“The speaker's name is TBA.”
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This is a finite curated collection. Each entry includes its source link and attribution/license notes.
Automated teller machine; a terminal that lets customers carry out basic banking transactions.
“There is an ATM beside the grocery entrance.”
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Global Positioning System; a satellite-based navigation system used to determine location and support timing.
“The map app used GPS to estimate the drive.”
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the United States civil space agency.
“NASA publishes information about its missions on its website.”
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North Atlantic Treaty Organization, an intergovernmental alliance of North American and European countries.
“NATO is headquartered in Brussels.”
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Personal identification number; a numeric code used to verify identity or authorize access.
“Choose a PIN that is difficult for others to guess.”
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Radio detection and ranging; a system that uses radio waves to detect objects and estimate their distance or movement.
“The weather radar showed a band of rain moving east.”
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Self-contained underwater breathing apparatus; equipment that lets a diver breathe underwater from a carried air supply.
“She completed a scuba course before the trip.”
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United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a United Nations agency focused on education, science, culture and communication.
“UNESCO maintains a World Heritage List.”
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Universal Serial Bus; a standard connection used to connect devices and transfer data or power.
“The keyboard connects through a USB port.”
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Uniform Resource Locator; the address used to identify a resource on the web.
“Paste the article's URL into the message.”
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