It’s an abbreviation that’s hard to remember if you don’t know what word is represented by each letter in the first place. And if you’ve already heard what it means, you might still be using it wrong.
DW, we will explain exactly how it is used across different platforms.
Adding IYKYK to your private or public message signifies that the content being shared is not for everyone. It is intended for only certain individuals who are already aware of the context in order to comprehend the message’s true meaning.
That’s because IYKYK means “If you know, you know.”
Now let’s talk about its significance on Instagram and TikTok, and its role in connecting friends through shared experiences.
Decoding IYKYK Meaning
IYKYK stands for “if you know, you know,” as mentioned above. This shortened form of the phrase is used to convey a sense of exclusivity or a common understanding between a select group of people.
It can be written in both uppercase (IYKYK) and lowercase (iykyk) forms.
The acronym is often used to reference an inside joke, a shared experience, or a specific event that only certain individuals will understand.
Read: What DTB Means & Why Using It Can Easily Ruin Your Social Media Presence
The individual letters of this abbreviation playfully hide a recognizable phrase that is now common in “internet speak”.
Say, you and your friends were watching a Twitch streamer (let’s call him Brucie) you’ll don’t particularly like struggle and curse his way through the multiplayer Rust, you might go on Twitter and say something like “Boy, Brucie sure was malding last night. Someone needs to give his fans shot of copium asap #iykyk”.
In such a situation, only you, the streamer and those who watched the game on Twitch the previous day would know what you meant.
When used correctly, IYKYK can create a sense of connection (and camaraderie) among those who are “in the know,” while also piquing the curiosity of those who are not.
Tracing the Origins of “If You Know, You Know”
Its rise in popularity can be partially attributed to a 2018 song by American rapper Pusha T titled “If You Know You Know.”
Also see: What Does LFG Mean In Gaming?
In 2020, IYKYK saw a further surge in popularity due to a rapidly growing TikTok hashtag, where users would create videos for specific audiences. As Google Trends indicates, it was most heavily used in early 2020.
Basically, the abbreviation was first seen on social media before it spread to other areas of the web.
How to Use IYKYK Correctly & Effectively
IYKYK is commonly used as a hashtag added to the caption of a picture or video on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, as well as Twitter.
Here are some tips for using it correctly:
- Context is key. Use IYKYK when referring to a specific event, experience, or inside joke that only a select group will understand.
- Ensure that your post or message provides enough context for those who are “in the know” to grasp the reference, but not so much that it becomes obvious to everyone else.
- Choose your audience wisely. Be mindful of the fact that not everyone will understand your IYKYK reference.
- Be prepared to offer an explanation if necessary, but also respect the exclusivity of the shared experience by not divulging too much information.
Examples of iykyk in a Sentence
To give you a better idea of how to use IYKYK in a sentence, here are some examples of the abbreviation in action:
- “Can’t believe what happened at the concert last night. #iykyk”
- “That plot twist in the latest episode was mind-blowing! #iykyk”
- “The secret menu at this café is amazing. IYKYK.”
In the above scenarios, the writer of these messages is aiming them at those who were also present (or viewed) the concert, at those who already saw the episode they’re referring to and at those who’ve been to the café they’re talking about, respectively.
The Impact of Such Acronyms on Internet Culture
IYKYK has had a significant impact on internet culture, promoting a sense of exclusivity and community among those who share inside jokes, experiences, or interests.
By using IYKYK, individuals can create a sense of belonging and identity among their peers, while also intriguing those who are not “in the know.”
At the same time, the acronym can sometimes create a sense of division or exclusion for those who don’t understand the reference.
It’s essential to strike a balance between fostering connection and inclusivity when using IYKYK in your online communication.
In conclusion, the abbreviation IYKYK essentially encapsulates the concept of shared experiences and inside references among friends or select groups of people.
By understanding what IYKYK means and how to use it appropriately, you can foster a sense of connection with your audience, while also engaging in a playful exchange of exclusive information.
As internet slang continues to evolve, IYKYK stands out as a testament to the power of language in bringing people together, both online and offline.