4RL

What Does 4RL Mean in a Text?

4RL means "For Real."

The abbreviation 4RL is used with the meaning "For Real" as a statement, to emphasize that the speaker is being truthful. It is also used as a question (i.e., "For Real?") to express surprise or incredulity. (See below for examples.)

"For Real" is also abbreviated as FR, FRL, and FRILL.

Image for 4RL

When I write 4RL, I mean this:

4RL can be a question or a statement.

Summary of Key Points

"For Real" is the most common definition for 4RL on Snapchat, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

4RL
Definition:	For Real
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	3: Guessable
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of 4RL in Sentences

Here are examples of 4RL being used in conversations:

• I have a date with Samantha 4RL.
(Here, 4RL is used as a statement meaning "It is definitely true.")

• Tony: I won $200 on a scratchcard.
• Jordan: 4RL?
• Tony: 4RL
(Here, the 4RL is being used as both a question and a statement.)

An Academic Look at 4RL

4RL is typically used as a declarative sentence (i.e., a statement) or an interrogative sentence (i.e., a question). Depending on context, it can also play the role of an adverb, meaning "definitely."

What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?

Before the digital era, we would have said something like "I am not pulling your leg" or "Are you joking?" instead of 4RL.

Using Numbers in Texts

This video shows the different ways that numbers are used in "text speak":

Example of 4RL Used in a Text

Quiz

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