People often use “HBY” in texts and on Snapchat, but what does it stand for? With so much slang around, keeping up can be difficult. Don’t worry, though.

This article will explain all possible meanings of “HBY” and show you different ways to use it in your messages.

Meaning of “HBY” on Snapchat

The most common meaning of “HBY” is “how about you.”

People often shorten “about” to “’bout,” making the phrase sound like “how ’bout you?”

Many people use this on messaging apps such as WhatsApp and social media sites like Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Examples:

• You: “Are you going to the game this weekend?”

• Them: “Yeah! I can’t wait to relax and have some fun. HBY?”

Meaning of “HBY” in Texting

In texts, people use “HBY” to mean “how about you.”

Friends, family, and colleagues use “HBY” to ask about your opinions, plans, or status. It allows for a fast reply when someone checks on you or your activities.

Examples:

• “I feel a bit tired today. HBY?”

• “My work schedule looks hectic this week. HBY?”

Ways to Use “HBY”

Start a chat.

 “HBY” is a question that encourages a reply. Use it to begin a conversation with a friend, learn about someone new, or grab your crush’s attention.

Examples:

• You: “My weekend is so boring. 😭 HBY?”

• Them: “Aw, that’s tough! Mine’s been slow, too. Want to hang out?”

Check on plans.

Use “HBY” to confirm plans with your friend. It shows your interest and ensures you both agree.

Examples:

• You: “We talked about watching a movie tomorrow. I’m still in! HBY?”

• Them: “I have a family event that night. But we can go the next day if you’re free?”

Get an opinion.

“HBY” helps you find out what someone thinks about a topic. It can also start a fun discussion or help you bond over shared interests.

Examples:

• You: “Unpopular opinion: I believe ghosts are real. HBY?”

• Them: “Same! I’m glad to know you believe in it, too. 👻”

How to Reply to “HBY”

Give a short answer if you’re busy

“HBY” can start a chat, but the reply doesn’t need long. If a simple “yes” or “no” answers the question, keep it short.

Examples:

• Them: “I’m going to the party tonight. HBY?”

• You: “Same! See you there. 😁”

Add details to keep talking

“HBY” is a yes-or-no question, but you can add more to continue the conversation. Try sharing a comment or asking a question.

Examples:

• Them: “I want to watch the new Riverdale season. HBY?”

• You: “Yes! Let’s watch the first episode together. 😊”

• Them: “Totally! Let’s plan a hangout….”

Other Meanings of “HBY”

“HBY” can mean “How to Be You.”

Sometimes, “HBY” stands for “how be you.” The entire phrase may sound unusual, but some people use it to check in after no communication.

If the message has no extra details, it likely means, “How are you?”

Example:

• Them: “Hey! HBY?”

• You: “Not bad! It has been a busy week, but it was fun, too. 😊”

“HBY” can also be spelled as “HBU”

Another version of “HBY” is “HBU.” In this case, “about” becomes “’bout,” and “you” turns into “u.”

Though the spelling differs slightly, both abbreviations mean the same thing.

You can use them interchangeably, pick your preferred version, or match what your friends use.