Teen Slang · Online & texting

What does “TMI” mean?

'Too much information.' 'TMI but I had to share.'

Where “TMI” comes from

Long-standing texting shorthand.

Why teens actually say it

Self-deprecating warning before oversharing.

What it means for you as a parent

Benign.

How it’s used

  • “TMI but I cried at the dentist today.” Oversharing on purpose, half-laughing at themselves.
  • “Okay that’s TMI, I did not need that.” Gently flagging that someone shared too much.

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