When you hear the common initialism “TBH,” have you ever started to wonder what it stands for? You’ve found the right place if that’s the case. Every detail you’ve ever desired to understand about the acronym “TBH,” including its meaning (“TBH Meaning”), history, and proper usage in a sentence, is right here in this blog post.
This article will explore a few of the many possible contexts in which this term can be used. So, without any more hemming and hawing, let’s dive into the meat of the matter and take a close look at the specifics.
TBH Meaning / TBH Definition
“TBH” is slang for “To Be Honest”. Regardless of how often you like it all through the day, “TBH” is acceptable. Many speakers of English are currently using this colloquialism at the start or finish of a sentence. This demonstrates that perhaps the individual is providing an objective assessment of the topic.

Adolescents often append “TBH” to messages in which they reflect an out-of-the-ordinary or potentially contentious viewpoint. People will sometimes use this initialism to emphasize a point or mitigate the impact of an unfavorable text as well.
Additionally, TBH is widely utilized by numerous members of Generation Z when speaking honestly about either an individual or a topic.
See Also: STG Meaning: Usage & Examples
TBH History & Origin
While being truthful, an abbreviation for “to be honest,” i.e., “TBH”, was first used in 1991. Since “TBH” became popular on the web and on numerous different social media networking platforms, many people have started using it in conversation as well.
Moreover, by the time “TBH” had become so widely used, it was included in the 2003 edition of the Urban Dictionary. Sadly, several folks back then won’t hear about this acronym since they didn’t have access to modern conveniences like smartphones and the internet. “TBH” and related initialisms gained widespread popularity in 2011.
Historically, the term “TBH” was commonly employed when conveying information that the recipient would find upsetting or offensive. In this context, “not meaning to offend” implies that the speaker is simply giving their unfiltered viewpoint.
Besides, millennial Instagrammers have given this slang term a new interpretation as of late. To them, “TBH” is a sincere way to express appreciation for another person. This could also be translated as “to be heard,” according to some people.
During the years 2015-2016, the alternative meaning of “TBH” gained widespread attention. Various daytime news broadcasts and reputable newspapers have stated that the expression “TBH” or “to be heard” is frequently utilized within bullying situations.
In addition, “TBH” is a questions and answers application with a questionnaire structure designed just for adolescents. While first trending high on Google Trends, interest quickly declined. It has never been featured in any business magazines or on Instagram’s story stickers since then.
TBH Meaning on Social Media & Texting
On Twitter and other social media sites, “TBH” means “to be honest.” If you’ve ever seen the abbreviation “TBH” in a social media post, it was most probably being used in replacement of the expression “to be honest” at the start or conclusion of a statement.
Internet youth chat and texting might be difficult to decipher. As it develops at a rapid pace, internet terminology can seem completely foreign. In communications and on social networking sites, “TBH” is sometimes shortened to “tbh.” Moreover, its characters are uttered when used in conversation.

Truth be told, like much web lingo, outlived this abbreviation’s fundamental meaning in the minds of certain people. Today’s teenagers are now utilizing this term on Instagram to discover new acquaintances and interactions, as well as to complement each other.
“TBH” in compensation for a following or like is prevalent among youths as a technique to make fast pals and increase self-esteem. On social media, “TBH” can either be used as a slur or as praise, under certain conditions and circumstances.
Besides, “TBH” has many uses, much like its source term, “to be honest.” It denotes a variety of phrases in which one is open about his/her sentiments or thoughts, from the profound and weighty to the light and banal. Among youngsters, this slang term may be used to signify gratitude through the act of “liking” a post.
TBH Usage & Examples
To be honest or “TBH” is generally used at the commencement of a statement, though it may also be employed at the completion. Suppose you wish to express your disappointment with a video clip that your buddy recommended. You may say something such as, “TBH, I didn’t enjoy the video clip or find it funny.” Conversely, it might be used at the closing of a statement to convey appreciation, like, “TBH, I would have no idea what to do if I didn’t got you by my side.”
Teens often utilize “TBH” in posts on social media to solicit genuine feedback from their peers. Some of the phrases they might use are “TBH for TBH” or “like and share this post for a TBH.”, which suggests they’re looking for sincere feedback and responses. These judgments could be hilarious or favorable. However, there are situations when kids go beyond words and really begin to abuse or make derogatory remarks.
TBH Examples
- “TBH, grilled burgers, spaghetti, salmon, and pancakes are foods that I truly never get tired of eating”.
- “Although it seems insane, I actually adore performing suicidal runs, TBH”.
- “TBH, I’d prefer going golfing with Emma than Sasha”.
- “TBH, he usually has a stinky odor around him. Sorry about that!”
- “I absolutely despise your sense of style, TBH!”
- “TBH, you’re a kind-hearted human lady, and everybody knows that in the neighborhood.”
- “Although raspberries are my favorite, I enjoy eating a wide variety of fruits, TBH”.
- “TBH, I was confused during the entire film”.
- “TBH, I’ve absolutely adored her since we first encountered”.
- “TBH, you need just relax and let it go”.
- “Though I admit that soccer is my favorite sport, but TBH, basketball and bowling are close seconds”.
- “Quite frankly, but TBH, meeting you was the finest moment that could have happened to me for sure”.
Other Meanings for TBH
- TBH – Together By Heart
- TBH – Tindersen Blacktree Hoopdriver
- TBH – To Be Hit
- TBH – Tail Bearing Housing
- TBH – Ten Bucks an Hour
- TBH – The Best Husband
- TBH – The Big House
- TBH – Texas Beyond History
- TBH – Top-Bar Hive
- TBH – The Brother Hood
- TBH – Triple Banana Hammock
- TBH – To Be Hired
- TBH – Trumpet Behavioral Health
Related Slangs
- JBH (Just Being Honest)
- LBH (Let’s Be Honest)
- TBBH (To Be Brutally Honest)
- IMO (In My Opinion)
- IMHO (In My Honest Opinion)
- IIRC (If I Remember/Recall Correctly)
- TBF (To Be Fair)
See Also: WTD Meaning: Usage & Examples
Conclusion
So, what does “TBH” mean? While its original meaning was “to be honest,” the acronym has taken on a life of its own and can now be used in a variety of ways and contexts. Typically, it is used as a way to express agreement or approval, but it can also be used simply as a way to acknowledge something that someone has said. No matter how you use it, this slang term is sure to add some extra emphasis (and maybe even a little bit of sass) to your conversation. So go ahead and give it a try next time you’re looking to spice up your text game!
Frequently Asked Questions
In Snapchat, what does “TBH” stand for?
“TBH” can mean either “to be honest” or “to be heard,” although the latter meaning is used far less frequently on Snapchat. If you’ve ever encountered the abbreviation “TBH” used on social networking sites, it’s probably because the writer was trying to avoid using the full phrase “to be honest” at the opening or conclusion of a statement.
“TBH”, does that seem like a compliment?
These days, teenagers on social networking sites use “TBH” as a form of slang praise, so to speak. A commendation or frank assessment is on the horizon; therefore, “TBH” is the code for both. However, don’t consider this as the final verdict. It’s totally up to your own choice to use “TBH” in the manner and context you like.
When does a person preface their account with “TBH”?
“To be honest”, or “TBH”, is an initialism commonly used online. However, it takes on a narrower sense as a noun in this case. When you type a “TBH” about anyone, you express feelings or thoughts that you have not yet expressed directly to that person before.