When you see “ISTG!!!” in all caps, it usually signals frustration. But what does it mean? If you’re decoding texting slang, you’re in the right place.
The article explains ISTG’s meaning, shows how to reply, and offers similar slang in messages. Let’s begin!
What Does ISTG Mean in Text And Online?
ISTG stands for “I swear to God” in messages and online. People use it online and in conversation to express frustration or make a point.
Although it mentions “God,” it is not usually considered religious. Some also shorten it to “I s2g” or “s2g.”
- “If he doesn’t pick up my next call, we’re breaking up, istg!”
- “Istg Ms. Hearney gives more homework than any other teacher.”
How to Use ISTG in Conversations?
Show You’re Serious or Not Joking
Use ISTG to indicate whether you’re being serious or not joking. When sharing surprising news, add it at the beginning or end of a sentence.
It helps clarify that you genuinely mean what you’re saying, which might be unclear in the text.
- Examples:
ISTG, I just saw four cars full of clowns on the highway.
Everything at Starbucks is half off today, istg!!
Express Annoyance or Frustration
Use ISTG to express frustration or irritation. Add it when something bothers you, like saying, “I swear to God!” out loud. It clearly shows genuine anger or annoyance.
- Examples:
It’s way too hot outside, istg! 🥵
Why can’t I go on one vacation without getting sick!? ISTG!
Emphasize a Point or Make a Promise
Use ISTG to stress a point or make a promise. Add it when you want someone to believe you or know you’re committed to keeping your word.
You can use it for a positive promise or to set a consequence.
- Examples:
I’ll be at your party, istg!
Istg, if you miss curfew, you’re grounded.
I promise I’ll arrive early to help, ISTG!
istg, if you don’t take this vacation seriously, I’m done!
Replying to ISTG Messages
Trust someone when they text something surprising and add ISTG.
They use ISTG because they believe you’ll only accept their news with that extra assurance, especially if it’s unexpected.
Show that you understand the shock with a response like “That’s crazy!” or “Wow?”
- Them: “I just found out I’m the Valedictorian, istg!”
- You: “Omg! Congrats!! 🥳”
- Them: “I saw my ex three times today, ISTG. So weird.”
- You: “Ugh, that’s wild! Sorry, you had to see them so much!”
Show empathy when someone uses ISTG out of frustration.
When a friend or family member feels stressed and uses ISTG, reply with comforting words. If it fits, send a joke, meme, or GIF to help lighten their mood.
- Them: “I have too much to finish by tomorrow, istg! 😞”
- You: “You work so hard, I know you’ll finish it!”
- Them: “The wait for the new rollercoaster is an hour, ISTG!”
- You: “Take a deep breath! Save that excitement for the ride!”
Acknowledge promises or boundaries when someone uses ISTG.
When someone uses ISTG to emphasize a promise or set a boundary, believe them and show you understand.
Respond with a light tone for positive situations and a severe tone to more critical issues.
- Them: “Istg, I’ll make it to book club this time!”
- You: “That’s great! Can’t wait to see you there!”
- Them: “I can’t keep lying to Mom and Dad for you, istg.”
- You: “I get it now. Next time, I’ll speak the truth.”
Slang Words
Use OMG (“Oh my God”) to express surprise or frustration. People use OMG in casual conversations without religious meaning. Instead of ISTG, you can use OMG or send it as a standalone exclamation.
OMG is one of the most popular slang acronyms.
- “That’s so annoying, omg!”
- “Omg, Greg got fired!”
Try ONG (“on God”) or FR (“for real”) to show you mean it. You can replace ISTG with these to emphasize that you’re serious.
People often add them at the end of a sentence.Like ISTG and OMG, ONG doesn’t carry a religious context.
- “I’ll leave this town one day, ong.”
- “I’m over this calculus class, fr.”
Acronyms to Know
Learn these common acronyms to stay updated:
- ISK: A typo for IDK (“I don’t know”) or “I should know”
- IDM: “I don’t mind.”
- MCM: “Man crush Monday.”
- WCW: “Woman crush Wednesday”
- MBN: “Must be nice.”
- FFF: “Follow for follow.”
- PMO: “Put me on” (introduce to someone or something)
- OOMF: “One of my followers” or “One of my friends.”
- OMW: “On my way.”
