NGL Meaning: What Does NGL Mean?

Last updated on June 15, 2024 by Isabella Claire

What does NGL mean? In this lesson, you will learn the definition and how to use this text abbreviation with ESL infographic and useful conversation examples in English.

Key Takeaways

  • NGL is a popular abbreviation meaning “not gonna lie,” signaling honesty or vulnerability
  • The term is frequently used in informal digital conversations, such as texting and social media
  • Versatility allows NGL to be employed in various contexts, from sharing opinions to softening critiques

NGL Meaning

What Does NGL Mean?

NGL is a popular slang abbreviation that stands for “Not Gonna Lie.” It is commonly used in casual conversations, especially on social media platforms and in text messages. This friendly shorthand expression is typically employed when someone wants to openly admit something that could be embarrassing or when trying to make a criticism or complaint less offensive.

The phrase “Not Gonna Lie” is used to show sincerity and honesty, similar to saying “honestly,” “if I’m being honest,” or “to be honest.” It is a convenient way for someone to share their thoughts or opinions candidly and straightforwardly. For instance, people may use NGL to confess their admiration for a certain movie or express their disappointment in a friend’s behavior.

Here are a few examples of how NGL can be used:

  • “NGL, that movie was amazing.”
  • “That test was really hard, ngl.”
  • “Ngl, I find that person hilarious.”

One thing to note is that, while NGL can be widely understood in the digital space, it may not yet be as recognized in traditional or professional settings. As such, it’s important to be cautious when using slang terms like NGL in more formal or official situations.

Similar internet slang words

  • “IDC” = I (I) + D (Don’t) + C (Care)
  • “TBH” = T (To) + B (Be) + H (Honest)
  • “NGLTBH” = N (Not) + G (Going to or gonna) L – (Lie) + T (To) + B (Be) + H (Honest)
  • “INGL” = I (I am or I’m) + N (Not) + G (Going to or gonna) + L (Lie)
  • “FR” = F (For) + R (Real)
  • “FRFR” = F (For) + R (Real) + F (For) + R (Real)
  • “STG” = S (Swear) + T (To) + G (God)
  • “IMO” = I (In) + M (My) + O (Opinion)
  • “IMHO” = I (In) + M (My) + H (Honest) + O (Opinion)

“NGL” is often used with “TBH” so that it becomes “NGLTBH”. “Tbh” means to be honest. Why people find it necessary to first say I’m not going to lie, and then follow that with to be honest. To me, it’s basically repetition but most text lingo doesn’t make sense to me in the first place so I’m used to it. You might also see or use “T.B.H.”. Same meaning, just a different format.

There is also a slightly less used “INGL”, or “I’m not going to lie”. Other slang words that might often be used in connection with or in place of “NGL” is “STW”, which is “Swear to God”. Or “FR”, which is “For Real”. Some people often use “frfr” to signify that they are serious about something. This means “for real, for real”. Once again, just repetition. Maybe people think it makes them sound more sincere. Idk (I don’t know). Yo

What is NGL’s origin?

NGL, an abbreviation for “not gonna lie,” has its roots in colloquial language and became popular over time, particularly in social media and text messaging. The phrase “not gonna lie” or “I’m not gonna lie” originated sometime within the last 100 years. It was originally meant to imply honesty or vulnerability, which continues to be its main use today.

In recent years, the adoption of NGL in various digital communication platforms has been significant. The rapid growth and influence of social media and texting have facilitated this rise in usage. NGL has become an informal means of acknowledging potentially embarrassing admissions and is often used to soften negative opinions or complaints.

The use of NGL, however, is not always reserved for genuinely deep or controversial statements. It is often casually used before or after expressing opinions that may not be particularly insightful or impactful. Despite this, NGL remains a popular method of communicating in a straightforward and honest manner, reaffirming the speaker’s authenticity and sincerity.

In summary, NGL is an abbreviation for “not gonna lie” that has gained traction in recent years, mainly due to the proliferation of social media and text messaging. It is used to express honesty, vulnerability, and sometimes as a way to soften negative opinions or complaints.

NGL Examples in Conversations, Texting, and Social Posts

NGL (Not Gonna Lie) is a common acronym used across social media and texting to express honesty or vulnerability. In this section, you will find several examples of NGL usage in different online platforms such as Twitter and other social media sites.

NGL on Twitter

Twitter, with its 280-character limit, is the perfect platform for using abbreviations like NGL. Users often employ the acronym to share their real opinions and connect with others. Here are some examples of NGL usage in tweets:

  • “NGL, I was confused by the movie’s plot, but the visuals were amazing!”
  • “NGL, I have too many unread emails.”
  • “NGL, I feel like my cat is judging me when I eat pizza.”

These examples show how users employ NGL in tweets to convey genuine feelings or honest opinions in a friendly manner.

NGL in Other Social Media Platforms

Similar to its frequent use on Twitter, NGL is widely used on various social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Users incorporate the acronym into their posts and comments to express honesty or vulnerability. Here are some examples:

  • Facebook: “NGL, I’m super nervous for my job interview tomorrow.”
  • Instagram: “NGL, I wasn’t sure about this dress, but it’s growing on me! ????”
  • Snapchat: “NGL, I’m pretty proud of my workout progress.”

In conclusion, the friendly tone brought by NGL allows users to connect with their friends and followers by sharing honest thoughts and feelings, making conversations more genuine across various social media platforms.

Conversation Examples

Here are some examples of how these acronyms might be used:

Example 1 using “NGL” (Not Going to Lie)

  • Speaker 1: ngl that color doesn’t look good on you
  • Speaker 2: omg fr?? My bf said he likes it
  • Speaker 1: he’s a guy ijs
  • Speaker 2: right lmao

**In this conversation, speaker 1 has elected to tell speaker 2 something that seems a little harsh but she informs the other person first before being blunt.

  • “OMG” = O (Oh) + M (My) + G (God or gosh)
  • “BF” = B (Boy) + F (Friend)
  • “IJS” = I (I’m or I am) + J (Just) + S (Saying)
  • “LMAO” = L (Laughing) + M (My) + A (A$$) + O (Off)

(This can also be phrased LMBO where the B stands for butt instead of the swear word)

Example 2 using “NGL” (Not Going to Lie)

  • Speaker 1: ngl Mr. Smith looks good in those pants
  • Speaker 2: eww he’s old like 40
  • Speaker 1: idc imo older guys are hot
  • Speaker 2: you are so weird
  • Speaker 1: ik

**In this conversation, Speaker 1 is admitting the truth about something, even though her friend thinks it’s weird.

  • “IK” = I (I) + K (Know)

Example 3 with “NGL” (Not Going to Lie)

  • Speaker 1: ngl but you are so damn beautiful
  • Speaker 2: Aww ty
  • Speaker 1: you wanna get a drink?
  • Speaker 2: I have a bf
  • Speaker 1: He ain’t gotta know he ain’t invited.
  • Speaker 2: What time?

**In this example, Speaker 1 is using “ngl” as a way to flirt with a girl through messaging, even though she has a boyfriend, which she obviously doesn’t seem to care about either.

  • “TY” = T (Thank) + Y (You)

Example 4 with “NGLTBH” (Not Going to Lie To Be Honest)

  • Speaker 1: Dude did your mom catch you
  • Speaker 2: Naw! I got away with it
  • Speaker 1: Fr? Wth ngltbh I thought we were busted
  • Speaker 2: m2 omg I was freaking out
  • Speaker 1: Def need to be more careful
  • Speaker 2: Agreed

**In this conversation, Speaker 1 uses a lot of shorthand to show his shock and excitement over getting away with whatever thing they did that they weren’t supposed to do. Shame shame.

  • “WTH” = W (What) + T (The) + H (Hell)
  • “M2” = M (Me) + 2 (Too)

“Def” means definitely.

More about TBH Terminology

NGL Synonyms

Honest Opinion and TBH

NGL, which stands for “not gonna lie” or “not going to lie,” is a popular internet slang often used to express one’s honest opinion or to describe something that might be embarrassing or harsh. A similar abbreviation often used in a similar context is TBH, which stands for “to be honest.” Both NGL and TBH are typically used when someone wants to express their true feelings or opinions without causing offense.

Other Synonyms

While NGL and TBH are the most common abbreviations for expressing honesty or candidness, there are other synonyms and expressions that can be used to convey the same sentiment:

  • Honestly: Just like NGL or TBH, this word is used when someone wants to be straightforward in their communication.
  • For real: This phrase can be used to emphasize sincerity and authenticity in a person’s statement.
  • No lie: Another way to make it clear that the speaker is being genuine in their statement.

Internet Slang

NGL and TBH are just two examples of the countless internet slang terms used in daily online communication. These abbreviations and acronyms are a widespread and essential part of various platforms, including social media, messaging apps, and online forums. Here are some additional popular internet slang terms that convey honesty or authenticity:

  • IMHO: In my humble opinion (used to express a personal viewpoint, with a tone of humility)
  • IYAM: In your honest opinion (similar to IMHO, but addressing another person’s opinion)
  • TMI: Too much information (used when someone shares a piece of information that might be considered too personal or revealing)

These slang terms and abbreviations have become an essential part of online communication, making it more brief and efficient while also adding a casual and friendly tone.

Other Meanings

“NGL” can also stand for natural gas liquids, which would be used primarily in a scientific conversation. Types of NGL are gasoline, crude oil, butane, and propane, just to name a few. It is highly doubtful that you would ever use this acronym in this way unless you are specifically talking about chemicals, which let’s face it, most of us do not do on a daily basis.

Here is the list of other meanings:

  • Nordic Green Left
  • National Guardian Life
  • No Greater Love
  • Natural Gas Liquids
  • Next Generation Leaders
  • National Guardian Life Insurance Company (Madison, WI)
  • Natural Ground Level
  • Next-Generation Lithography
  • National Golf League
  • National Grid for Learning

NGL Meaning Infographic

NGL

Frequently Asked Questions

What does NGL stand for on social media?

NGL is an acronym that stands for “not gonna lie” or “not going to lie.” It is commonly used on social media platforms and in text messages to express honesty, especially when admitting something that might be embarrassing or providing constructive criticism.

How is NGL used in a sentence?

NGL is used as a casual way to be honest about one’s thoughts or feelings. For example, someone might say, “NGL, that movie was really boring,” to express their opinion without offending the person they’re talking to. Another example could be, “I’m actually impressed with your work, ngl.” In this case, the speaker is conveying their genuine appreciation.

Can NGL have a sexual connotation?

Generally, NGL does not have a sexual connotation. However, context is crucial, and any phrase or acronym can be given a sexual meaning depending on how it is used. Always be mindful of the context and the people you are communicating with to avoid any misunderstandings.

What does ‘sus NGL’ mean?

The term “sus NGL” combines the acronym NGL with “sus,” a slang abbreviation for “suspicious” or “suspect.” When used together, “sus NGL” could be interpreted as someone admitting that something or someone seems suspicious or questionable. For example, “That guy’s behavior was sus ngl,” would mean the speaker thinks the person’s behavior was strange.

How is NGL used in gaming?

In gaming, NGL is used similarly to how it is applied in general conversation. Gamers may use NGL to express their honest opinions about a game, a play, or another player’s actions without causing offense. For instance, someone might say, “NGL, that strategy didn’t work well,” as a way of providing constructive feedback.

What is the difference between NGL and anonymous?

NGL, meaning “not gonna lie,” is an acronym used to express honesty in conversation. On the other hand, “anonymous” refers to something or someone that is unidentified or not known. These two terms have different meanings and are not interchangeable. While NGL represents an honest admission, “anonymous” can be used in various situations where the identity of a person or source is unknown or purposely hidden.

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