English for Writing SMS
SMS is an abbreviation of Short Message Service. It is a service that enables the transmission of typed text messages from one mobile phone to another. In the present situation, the facilities such as cell phone handsets, network subscriptions and recharging cards are easily available at an affordable cost. In the present circumstances, SMS is cheaper than a voice call. It is the fastest way of communication. It is less intrusive, and it can be saved for future reference.
However, the language of SMS is an independent register that does not follow the conventions of the written language. The language of SMS is used in a very free way just like speech between very close friends. Therefore the SMS language is a threat to standard writing which may evoke fears among the language teachers and academicians. They compare the language and syntax of SMS with formal and written English. Nevertheless, SMS has become an effective means of communication.
Nowadays, greeting cards have been replaced by SMS. The SMS style of communication was initially used for different communication purposes such as exchanging information on events; invitation to religious, social, political, academic meetings, making business contacts and sending goodwill messages. Today students use SMS texting to chat, to pass information concerning meetings, lectures, assignments, and social networking. Study the following examples:
Hai, how R U?
Wel n gud Thank U
Rn’t U wel?
Note that the SMS is a system of providing the quickest means of communication in a brief manner. Therefore, it employs brevity of words through representation or sounds. It is for this reason that SMS words are numbers and letters or alphabets accordingly. For example:
How are you?
You are too good to be true.
how are u?
U’r 2 gud 2 b true.
The SMS text messages commonly use words that are shortened through the use of symbols to represent the word. For example:
“2morrow” is used for “tomorrow”
“4U” is used for “for you”
“2U” is used for “to you”
“b4” is used for “before”
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