IDTS
A texting abbreviation for “I don’t think so,” used to express doubt, disagreement, or a likely no.
By Cal Hewitt, Gen X · ·
What it means
IDTS is a compact response to a claim, question, or plan. It is usually less absolute than no and can sound cautious, dry, or sarcastic depending on context. It belongs in casual chat rather than formal communication.
See the quick definition in the IDTS dictionary entry.
How to use it
“Do you think the store is still open? IDTS.”
A doubtful answer.
“They said the deadline moved again. IDTS, but I’ll check.”
Cautious disagreement.
Where it came from
IDTS is a transparent initialism created for online chat and texting. Dictionary.com documented its social-media and texting use in 2018; no individual coiner or first platform is known.
No single person is credited, the origin is loosely attributed.
Where it's popular
English-language text messages, direct messages, comments, and gaming chat.
It is written shorthand, not usually spoken as letters.
How it caught on
- Texting eraInitialisms made quick replies easier to type.
- 2018Dictionary.com documented IDTS as social-media and texting slang.
- Current useIt remains a casual way to signal doubt or a probable no.
Common mix-ups
IDTS does not mean a firm, final no in every situation. It often communicates uncertainty or skepticism, and it is not suitable for formal messages where clarity matters.
Test yourself
IDTS, you know it?
0/31. What does IDTS stand for?
2. What tone can IDTS carry?
3. Where does IDTS fit best?
// the shop Shop LOST IN TRANSLATION shirts and hoodies for families who speak two kinds of slang
Related slang
More word guides
Questions people ask
What does IDTS stand for?
I don’t think so.
Is IDTS the same as no?
It can function as a negative answer, but it is usually less definite.
Where is IDTS used?
Texting, social media, group chats, and other informal writing.
IDTS is efficient on screen but inefficient in speech, so people usually say the full phrase out loud.
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