Have you ever gotten a message with “IMAO” (yep, that’s a big I, not a little L) and wondered what’s up? No stress—we’re here to break it down. IMAO means “In my arrogant opinion.”

It’s a chill way to share your take on something with a sarcastic twist. You’ll spot it on platforms like TikTok or in chats while gaming on Fortnite.

Let’s dive into what it means, how to use it, and how it stacks up against stuff like IMO or IMHO!

Breaking Down IMAO

IMAO stands for “In my arrogant opinion.”

It’s a shortcut to drop your viewpoint with a wink. The “arrogant” part means acting like you’re super important, but it’s usually just for laughs.

Think of it as a jokey version of “Here’s what I think!”

• Example: “Pineapple on pizza is elite, IMAO.”

• It can sound cocky, sure, but it’s mostly lighthearted—not meant to start fights.

How to Toss IMAO Into Chats

Use it to share a big opinion with a grin.

Got a hot take you’re pumped about? Want to keep it fun and not too serious? Slap “IMAO” on it!

• “Dogs beat cats any day, IMAO.”

• “That movie was trash, IMAO.”

It’s also great for admitting you’re maybe too confident. IMAO flips the humble vibe of IMHO into something cheeky.

• “IMAO, my playlist is fire compared to yours.”

• “My idea for the weekend is the winner, IMAO!”

When to Drop IMAO

Stick to casual vibes with buddies.

Keep it for texts or hangouts with friends who get your jokes. Skip it in school emails or job stuff—it’s too laid-back.

Since it’s sarcastic, it works best with people who know your style.

• Tip: You can write it big (IMAO) or small (imao). Just don’t mix it up with “lmao” (laughing my butt off)!

Where Did IMAO Come From?

IMAO popped up in the early 2000s.

It grew out of IMHO (“In my humble opinion”) as a sassier option. People thought IMHO sounded fake-humble, so IMAO became a way to laugh at yourself instead.

It started online in 1989; someone even used it in a chat about The Beatles! Today, it’s still kicking around on X and Snapchat.

Similar Slang to Know

IMHO
It means “In my humble opinion.” It’s softer, like you’re being polite with your thoughts.

• “Cold weather rocks, IMHO.”

• “This game’s the best, IMHO.”
  Both IMHO and IMAO come from IMO (“In my opinion”)—the no-frills version.

IMNSHO
Stands for “In my not-so-humble opinion.” It’s like IMAO but worded differently—bold and self-aware.

• “Our school’s team is unstoppable, IMNSHO.”

• “This burger joint’s overrated, IMNSHO.”

LMAO
Short for “Laughing my butt off.” It’s all about cracking up at something hilarious. Watch out—IMAO and LMAO look close!

• “LMAO, that meme killed me!”

• “Your joke’s got me LMAO!”

IMMAO
Means “In my most arrogant opinion.” It’s IMAO dialed up—super bold and wild.

• “IMMAO, my style’s unmatched.”

• “This is the best cake ever, IMMAO!”