What’s the Meaning of Idk? Plus, How to Properly Use It (2024)

Co-authored byAnyah Le Gilmore-Jonesand Ali Garbacz, B.A.

Last Updated: August 14, 2023Fact Checked

Things You Should Know

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1. Idk is short for “I don’t know.” People mostly use this when texting or messaging. If you don’t feel like typing out “I don’t know” in full, then idk will work just fine. You might see it stylized as idk, IDK, or I.D.K., but just know that they all mean the exact same thing.^[1]

   • Idk is a very informal slang expression. Avoid using it in professional settings or when you’re talking to someone in a formal manner, such as if you’re talking to your boss or teacher.
   • A similar abbreviation is idek which is short for “I don’t even know.”^[2]

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1. 1

   Type idk when you don’t know the answer to something. Just as you would use “I don’t know,” reply with idk when you don’t know the answer to someone’s question or aren’t completely sure. Feel free to just send idk by itself, or add on an explanation or any information that you do have to help the other person out.^[3]

   • Them: “Do you know when Jennie’s birthday is?”
     You: “Idk 🤷”
   • Them: “Were we supposed to turn in that paper today?”
     You: “Uh idk? 😬 I thought it was due tomorrow??”
   • Them: “Where’s my jacket?”
     You: “Idk I haven’t seen it.”
2. 2

   Let someone know you’re confused by sending idk. If you don’t have enough information or are just genuinely puzzled, send idk via text to let the other person know. For example, send it when you’re not sure where something is or if you don’t know what your exact plans are.

   • “Idk where my book went…😭”
   • “Idk if I’ll be home tonight, so just eat without me.”
   • “Idk where we’re going but we’ll be back later.”
   • “Tell me which version I should use cuz idk 😅”
   • “Idk what she thinks about the idea but I hope it works out 🤞”
3. 3

   Express frustration with idk. When you’re feeling a bit fed up or frustrated, sticking idk (or idek) in your text can help get the message across. Be sure to also throw in some exasperated-looking emojis as well to better convey your feelings.

   • “Idk anymore 🙄”
   • “Idek. I don’t want to talk about it 😒”
   • “Idk bro. Do whatever you want.”
   • “Idk just pick whatever.”
   • “Idk it’s fine. You can all just go ahead.”
4. 4

   Show that you’re hesitating by sending idk. When you want to let someone know that you’re not 100% certain about a decision or answer, send idk along with your message. It’s also good to add if you’re reluctant to do or say something. For example:

   • “Idk if I should go or not 😬 What if something goes wrong?”
   • “I might buy this dress online but idk…It’s kind of expensive 😳”
   • “Idk if it’s a good idea to meet up Friday. I have so much work to do 😢”
   • “Jason wants to go get dinner. Idk should we?”
   • “I want to go on a vacation but idk. Where would I even go? 🤔”
5. 5

   Express nonchalance with idk. Since you usually only use idk in casual situations, it’s the perfect thing to add to your message if you want to come off as carefree and relaxed. It gives off the impression that you’re open to anything and are willing to go with the flow. For example:

   • “Idk I’m down for anything really.”
   • “I’m free on Friday. We can just hang out or something idk.”
   • “Idk I might go for a walk or something. We’ll see 🤷”
   • “We’re trying to decide on a movie but idk I’m really good with anything.”
   • “Idk I think I’m just going to stay in this weekend and sleep haha 😴”

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1. 1

   Provide someone with more information. If someone sounds confused, clarify and give them a bit more information to help them out. If they’re asking you a question, be sure to give them the answer if you know it.

   • Them: “Idk where my phone is…”
     You: “...Aren’t you texting on it right now?”
   • Them: “Idk how to do this. Help 😭”
     You: “Don’t worry I’m an expert 🤓”
2. 2

   Empathize if someone is frustrated. When it sounds like the other person is fed up and becoming irritated, be empathetic toward them and send some comforting words. Feel free to also include some sweet emojis to help ease their frustration.

   • Them: “Idk I don’t want to talk about it.”
     You: “That’s totally fine! Just know that I’ll be here to listen whenever you do want to talk 🥰”
   • Them: “Idk anymore 🙄”
     You: “I’m sorry they’re being so frustrating 😭 Feel free to rant to me whenever.”
3. 3

   Send your own personal opinion when someone’s hesitating. If the person texting you is in the middle of making a decision and sounds unsure, let them know what you think. Sometimes hearing others’ opinions is just what a person needs to make up their mind.

   • Them: “Idk if I should go or not…”
     You: “You totally should! It sounds fun! 😊”
   • Them: “I’m hungry but idk what to eat 😫”
     You: “Go get sushi. That’s always my first choice lol 🍣”

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