The acronym WTM is widely used in texting and on social media platforms. It has three main meanings: What’s The Move?, What’s The Matter?, and Whatever That Means. Each meaning serves a different purpose depending on the context of the conversation.
Let me explain each meaning to understand how and when to use it.
1. What’s The Move?
One of the most common meanings of WTM is “What’s The Move?” This phrase is often used when making plans or deciding what to do next. It’s a casual way of asking someone about their plans or suggesting that you’re ready to hang out or participate in an activity. Think of it as saying, “What’s the plan?” but in a shorter, trendier way.
People often use WTM when they’re feeling spontaneous or want to know what their friends are up to. It’s especially popular among younger generations, who use it frequently on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. You might see it in group chats, one-on-one texts, or even as captions on social media posts.
Uses
Here are some scenarios where WTM means “What’s The Move?”:
- Make Weekend Plans:
Imagine it’s Friday night, and you want to know what your friends are doing. Instead of sending a long text like, “Does anyone have plans for tonight?” you can simply say, “WTM?” Your friends will understand that you’re asking about the evening’s activities. - Spontaneous Hangouts:
If you’re bored at home and want to see if anyone is free to hang out, you can text your group chat: “Hey everyone, I’m free this afternoon. WTM?” - Social Media Posts:
On platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, people often use WTM as a caption for posts. For example, someone might post a picture of themselves dressed up for the night with the caption: “Ready for the weekend! WTM?”
Text Conversations Examples
Here are some examples to show how this version of WTM works in real conversations:
- Example 1:
Person 1: “I just finished work early.”
Person 2: “Nice! WTM?”
Person 1: “Let’s grab dinner and go bowling.” - Example 2:
Person 1: “It’s such a nice day outside.”
Person 2: “Agreed! WTM? Maybe we could go for a hike.” - Example 3 (Social Media):
Someone posts on their Instagram story: “Finally done with finals! WTM tonight?”
2. What’s The Matter?
Another common meaning of WTM is “What’s The Matter?” This version is used when someone wants to check on another person who seems upset or troubled. It’s a way of showing concern and asking if everything is okay. If someone is acting differently than usual or shares something that sounds negative, responding with WTM shows that you care.
It is often used in one-on-one conversations rather than group chats because it tends to be more personal. It reflects empathy and emotional support for the person you’re speaking with.
Time to Use WTM as “What’s The Matter?”
Here are some situations where this version of WTM might come up:
- When Someone Seems Upset:
If your friend sends you a message saying they’re having a bad day or feeling down, replying with “WTM?” lets them know you’re there for them without being too intrusive. - After Seeing a Cryptic Post:
On social media, people sometimes post vague or emotional messages when they’re upset. For example, if someone writes something like, “I can’t deal with this anymore,” replying with “WTM?” demonstrates that you’ve noticed their post and want to help. - Check In During a Conversation:
If someone suddenly becomes quiet during a chat or seems distracted, asking “WTM?” can encourage them to open up about what’s bothering them.
Text Conversations Examples
Here are some examples where this version of WTM might be used:
- Example 1:
Person 1: “I don’t think I can handle all this stress anymore.”
Person 2: “Oh no! WTM? Do you want to talk about it?” - Example 2:
Person 1: (Posts on Instagram): “Feeling so lost today…”
Person 2: (Replies): “Hey! WTM? I’m here if you need someone to talk to.” - Example 3:
Person 1: “I’m just not myself lately.”
Person 2: “That sounds tough. WTM?”
3. Whatever That Means
The third common meaning of WTM is “Whatever That Means”, which is often used sarcastically or humorously when someone doesn’t understand something or finds it unclear. It can also express skepticism about what another person has said.
Unlike the other two meanings of WTM, this one isn’t really a question, it’s more of a comment on something confusing or vague.
WTM allows people to express confusion without sounding rude or overly serious. In many cases, it helps lighten the mood by turning unclear statements into something funny or relatable.
Use
Here are some examples of situations where this version might be appropriate:
- React To Confusing Statements:
If someone says something that doesn’t make sense or uses overly complicated language, you can reply with “WTM” to add a playful tone to your confusion. - Express Skepticism:
When someone makes an exaggerated claim or says something hard to believe, responding with “WTM” shows that you’re not entirely convinced. - Comment On Vague Social Media Posts:
People sometimes post cryptic messages online that leave others scratching their heads. For example, if someone writes something like “Life is just one big puzzle,” to add humor while acknowledging the vagueness, you can respond with “WTM”.
Here are some examples where this version might come up:
- Example 1:
Person 1: “My teacher said I need to ‘embrace abstract thinking.’”
Person 2: “Haha! WTM.” - Example 2:
Person 1: “She said she wants us to stay ‘casually exclusive.’”
Person 2: “Wow…WTM.” - Example 3 (Social Media):
Someone posts: “The stars align when they choose.” A friend comments: “WTM lol.”
How to Respond to WTM
When someone sends you “WTM,” how you respond depends on its meaning in the conversation. Since WTM can mean “What’s The Move?,” “What’s The Matter?,” or “Whatever That Means,” your reply should match the context.
Let’s me talk about how to respond in detail for each meaning, with examples to guide you.
1. Respond to “What’s The Move?”
When WTM means “What’s The Move?,” the sender is asking about plans or what’s happening next. Your response should suggest an activity, share your availability, or ask for ideas if you’re unsure of what to do.
Examples of Responses:
- Suggest a Plan:
Friend: “WTM tonight?”
You: “How about we check out that new pizza place and then catch a movie?” - Ask for Input:
Friend: “WTM after work?”
You: “Not sure yet! Got any ideas?” - Share Availability:
Friend: “I’m free this afternoon. WTM?”
You: “Same here! Let’s grab coffee and hang out.” - Keep It Open-Ended:
Friend: “WTM for Saturday?”
You: “I’m down for anything fun. What are you thinking?”
Creative and Fun Replies:
- “I was waiting for you to decide! Let’s brainstorm.”
- “Just finished my errands—ready for an adventure. WTM?”
- “Let’s make it a chill night. Movie marathon at my place?”
These responses keep the conversation flowing and help solidify plans quickly.
2. Respond to “What’s The Matter?”
When someone uses “WTM” to mean “What’s The Matter?,” they are asking if something is wrong or how you are doing. You can decide how much you want to share about your feelings or situation in your response.
Examples of Responses:
- Opening Up About Your Feelings:
Friend: “You’ve been quiet all day… WTM?”
You: “I’ve just been feeling overwhelmed with work lately. Thanks for asking.” - Acknowledging Concern Without Sharing Details:
Friend: “I noticed you seemed upset earlier. WTM?”
You: “Thanks for noticing—I’m okay, just dealing with some stuff.” - Reassuring Them:
Friend: “Hey, WTM? You doing alright?”
You: “I’m okay now, but I appreciate you checking in.”
If You’re Asking Someone Else:
If you’re the one asking WTM and they share their feelings, respond with empathy and support:
- “That sounds tough. Do you want to talk more about it?”
- “I’m here for you if you need anything.”
Supportive Replies:
- “Thanks for asking—I really needed someone to talk to.”
- “It means a lot that you care. I’ll be okay, but I appreciate it.”
These responses show gratitude and keep the conversation supportive and kind.
3. Respond to “Whatever That Means”
When someone texts “WTM” to mean “Whatever That Means,” they are confused or doubtful about something unclear. You can choose to explain what was said or join in on the joke.
Examples of Responses:
- Clarifying a Statement:
Friend: “My professor said I need to ‘think critically,’ WTM.”
You: “Haha, it just means they want you to analyze things more deeply.” - Adding Humor:
Friend: “She said she wants us to stay ‘casually exclusive,’ WTM.”
You: “LOL, sounds complicated! Maybe she means no labels but still committed?” - Agreeing with Their Confusion:
Friend: “My boss told me we need ‘synergistic solutions,’ WTM.”
You: “Right? Corporate buzzwords are so confusing!”
Playful Replies:
- “Honestly, I have no idea either!”
- “Sounds like something out of a fortune cookie.”
- “Let me Google that real quick!”
General Tips for Responding to WTM
- Understand the Context: Before replying, think about what the sender might mean based on the situation. Are they asking about plans, showing concern, or reacting to something unclear?
- Be Clear and Engaging: Whether you’re making plans or offering support, keep your response thoughtful and engaging.
- Use Humor When Appropriate: If WTM is used sarcastically (as in “Whatever That Means”), feel free to add humor to lighten the mood.
- Ask Follow-Up Questions: If you’re unsure how to respond, ask questions like:
- “What do you feel like doing?” (for “What’s The Move?”)
- “Do you want to talk more about it?” (for “What’s The Matter?”)
- “Can you explain that again?” (for “Whatever That Means”)
Final Thoughts
WTM is an acronym with three main meanings:
- “What’s The Move?”—used for making plans or deciding what to do next.
- “What’s The Matter?”—used for showing concern when someone seems upset.
- “Whatever That Means”—used sarcastically when reacting to confusing statements.
Each meaning fits into different contexts depending on the situation and tone of the conversation. By understanding these meanings and knowing how to use/reply them correctly, you can make your texts and social media interactions smoother, and maybe even impress your friends with your knowledge of internet slang!
