I think abbreviations of words reflect the fact that Americans are lazy readers. (Have you ever noticed that the longer the initial post, the less replies? Not true with everyone but for the most part...)

I know I use "tho," "ppl" and "prolly" numerous times-- "b/c" is another I frequently use. Actually, I *SAY* "prolly" when among friends (but NOT in business or academics) ... I consider you all to be friends and so I guess that's why it's carried over.

I have no problem with 'cutsie' words so long as they are used intermittently within a larger, grammatically-correct, and essentially typo-free narrative.



Yes, I've had my share of typos but some members' posts are so hard to decipher that they quickly earn their way onto my ignore list. If I can't read your first post, I prolly ( ) don't need to read the rest of 'em...

You know what really gets my goat? this --> when used by the kids of pet talk. (referenced to kids because they are most often the ones who use it in a sarcastic 'tone' -- moreover because " " is often the only element within the post.)