BRB Meaning: What Does BRB Stand For?
Quick Answer
BRB stands for "Be Right Back" - one of the oldest and most common internet acronyms, used to indicate you're temporarily leaving a conversation but will return shortly.
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Basic Usage:
- "BRB, someone's at the door"
- "BRB grabbing coffee"
- "Phone's ringing, brb"
In Online Gaming:
- "BRB bathroom"
- "BRB afk" (combining with Away From Keyboard)
In Work Chat:
- "BRB, meeting starting"
- "BRB in 5"
BRB Examples
BRB vs Similar Terms
When to Use BRB
Use BRB when:
- Stepping away briefly (1-10 minutes)
- You intend to return to the conversation
- Being polite in active chats
Don't use when:
- Leaving for a long time (use BBL)
- Ending the conversation (use GTG)
- In formal/professional emails
Origin of BRB
BRB emerged in the early internet era (1990s) in IRC chat rooms and instant messaging. It became standard netiquette to notify others when temporarily leaving a conversation, rather than simply going silent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BRB rude?
No, BRB is actually polite, it lets others know you're stepping away rather than ignoring them. Not saying anything when you leave a conversation could seem rude.
Can I use BRB in professional settings?
In casual work chats (Slack, Teams), BRB is generally fine. For formal communications or with executives, spell it out: "I'll be right back" or "Back in 5 minutes."
What do I say when I come back?
Common responses: "Back," "I'm back," or just continue the conversation. In gaming: "Back" or "here."
Related Terms
Availability Acronyms:
- AFK Meaning - Away From Keyboard
- GTG Meaning - Got To Go
- TTYL Meaning - Talk To You Later
Other Texting Slang:
- BTW Meaning - By The Way
- PSA Meaning - Public Service Announcement
- IMO Meaning - In My Opinion
- NPC Meaning - Internet slang
Business Terms:
- EOW Meaning - End of Week
- Social Media Terms - Complete glossary