IDK

Idk means “I don’t know.” It’s one of the most common texting abbreviations, used for genuine uncertainty or as a casual verbal shrug.

What does idk mean?

Idk is short for “I don’t know.” Sometimes it’s a straight answer to a question. Just as often it softens a suggestion: “idk, maybe we should leave early” floats an idea without pushing it.

Tone matters. A bare “idk” in reply to a plan can read as unenthusiastic, while “idk, you pick!” sounds easygoing.

Idk variations

• idek: I don’t even know. Stronger, often exasperated (“idek what happened”).
• idc: I don’t care.
• idrk: I don’t really know.
• idfk: a ruder version with a swear word added.

How to use idk

• A: “What do you want for dinner?” B: “Idk, you pick.”
• “Idk if I can make it Saturday.”
• “Idk why, but this song always makes me cry.”
• “He said idk when I asked if he’s coming, so probably not.”

Is idk rude?

Not in itself, but a one-word “idk” to a direct question can feel dismissive, especially at work. “Not sure, let me check” does the same job more politely.

Where idk comes from

Idk dates from the early days of text messaging, when typing on a number keypad was slow and messages had strict character limits. Its first written use isn’t documented, but it has been standard text-speak for decades.

Related terms

• Smh: shaking my head.
• Tbh: to be honest.
• Imo: in my opinion.
• Iykyk: if you know, you know.

See more terms like this in our texting abbreviations guide.