Teen Slang · Online & texting

What does “ASAP” mean?

'As soon as possible.' 'Send it ASAP.'

Where “ASAP” comes from

Office-speak abbreviation that crossed into texting decades ago.

Why teens actually say it

Universal shorthand for urgency.

What it means for you as a parent

Routine. No concern.

How it’s used

  • “Can you send me the notes ASAP, the test is tomorrow.” Urgent and a little stressed — they need it right now.
  • “Mom said come home ASAP, gotta go.” Relaying a parent’s call-back. Time-sensitive, dropping everything.

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