abbreviation
Uncommon
TBH
tee-bee-AYCH
TBH (abbreviation) means to be honest: used in messages and online posts to introduce a frank opinion, often one that is slightly critical or unexpected. Example: “TBH I didn't think the film was that good.”
abbreviation
1
To be honest: used in messages and online posts to introduce a frank opinion, often one that is slightly critical or unexpected.
"TBH I didn't think the film was that good."
"It's not a great deal tbh, but it's the only one left."
noun
1
informal On social media, a short honest comment or compliment written about someone on request; a post inviting such comments.
"She posted a story asking for TBHs and got forty replies."
How to use TBH
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShort for "to be honest" — a way of flagging that you're being blunt.
When to use it
Informal; ubiquitous in texting and social media, out of place in professional writing.
Memory tip
Lower-case tbh is more common than capitals in casual chat, and it often replaces a comma rather than a full sentence.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
tbh I think
not great tbh
tbh idk
honestly tbh
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_____ I didn't think the film was that good.
Etymology
An initialism of "to be honest".
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TBH and NGL?
Both soften a frank statement. TBH ("to be honest") introduces a candid opinion; NGL ("not gonna lie") more often introduces an admission the speaker finds slightly embarrassing. NGL is the more casual and more recent of the two.
What is the difference between TBH and IMO?
IMO ("in my opinion") marks a statement as personal opinion and is fairly neutral. TBH signals that you are being blunt or saying something the other person may not want to hear, so it carries more social weight.
Where do you put TBH in a sentence?
Either end works. At the start it warns that honesty is coming; at the end it softens what you have just said, like a shrug. Mid-sentence use is rare.
What is the meaning of TBH?
"TBH" (abbreviation) means to be honest: used in messages and online posts to introduce a frank opinion, often one that is slightly critical or unexpected.
