What does WBU mean?

Bounces a question back to the other person. Also written “hbu” (how about you).

How to use it

The polite engine of small talk — answer, then add “wbu” to keep the conversation moving.

Examples

• im into anime and music, wbu?

In a real chat

Where it comes from

“What about you?” compressed for texting. Its sibling “hbu” (“how about you?”) is used the same way, and in most chats the two are interchangeable.

Is it friendly or rude?

Friendly and cooperative, because it invites the other person to talk too. Using it without ever adding anything of your own can make a chat feel like an interview in reverse.

Spellings and variations

“hbu” (how about you?) is the most common alternative, and “wby” (what about you?) and a bare “u?” do the same job even more briefly. “and you?” is the full-sentence version people fall back on when they want to sound less casual.

Common mistakes

WBU only works after you have actually answered. Sending “wbu” on its own in reply to a question dodges it, and people notice. The other trap is an interview loop, where both people answer in three words and add “wbu” every time. Add one real detail before bouncing the question back and the conversation has something to grow from.