What does TBH mean?
To Be Honest
Detailed Explanation
TBH is an acronym for 'To Be Honest.' It is used to signal that the speaker is about to offer a sincere opinion, a confession, or a thought they might otherwise hold back. It adds a layer of vulnerability or frankness to a statement and is a staple of digital communication for expressing genuine feelings.
Usage Examples
“I know everyone loves that show, but tbh I couldn't get into it.”
“TBH, I completely forgot about our meeting today, I'm so sorry.”
“She's a nice person, but tbh her jokes aren't very funny.”
Origin & History
TBH originated in the late 1990s and early 2000s in online chat rooms and forums. It became extremely popular on social media platforms like Facebook, where it was part of a trend ('Like for a tbh') where users would give honest opinions about each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does using TBH imply you are usually dishonest?
No, it's a linguistic hedge. It doesn't mean the speaker is normally a liar, but rather that they are making a special effort to be candid or are broaching a sensitive topic.