Humor Web Humor What Does OTOH Mean? You see this acronym all the time, but what does it mean? Print Web Humor Memes Holiday Humor By Paul Gil Paul Gil Technology Writer and Developer University of Alberta Northern Alberta Institute of Technology Paul Gil is a tech expert, writer, and educator known for his dynamic internet and database courses and articles. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on 06/30/21 "OTOH" is the slang acronym used online for "On the Other Hand." It is used when a person wants to list items on both sides of an argument. "OTOH" is often spelled all uppercase, but can be also spelled "otoh." All versions mean the same thing. Just be careful not to type entire sentences in uppercase, as that is considered rude—tantamount to shouting. Example of OTOH The following hypothetical dialog or conversation illustrates the common usage of OTOH. "I think you should buy that new i7 computer. Your current machine sucks." "My wife would disown me if I spent 2 grand on a new computer." "OTOH, she might like a faster machine in the house, if I can get her that interior design software to go with it." How to Capitalize and Punctuate Web and Texting Abbreviations Capitalization is not a concern when using text message abbreviations and chat jargon. You are welcome to use all uppercase (for example, ROFL) or all lowercase (for example, rofl); the meaning is identical. Avoid typing entire sentences in uppercase, though, as that means shouting in online speak. Proper punctuation is similarly a non-concern with most text message abbreviations. For example, the abbreviation for 'Too Long, Didn't Read' can be abbreviated as TL,DR or TLDR. Both are an acceptable format, with or without punctuation. Never use periods (dots) between your jargon letters. It would defeat the purpose of speeding up thumb typing. For example, ROFL would never be spelled R.O.F.L., and TTYL would never be spelled T.T.Y.L. Recommended Etiquette for Using Web and Texting Jargon Knowing when to use jargon in your messaging is about knowing who your audience is, knowing if the context is informal or professional, and then using good judgment. If you know the people well, and it is a personal and informal communication, then use abbreviation jargon. On the flip side, if you are just starting a friendship or professional relationship with the other person, it is a good idea to avoid abbreviations until you develop a relationship rapport. If the messaging is in a professional context with someone at work, or with a customer or vendor outside your company, avoid abbreviations. Using full word spellings shows professionalism and courtesy. It is easier to err on the side of being too professional and then relax your communications over time than doing the inverse.