Our relationship with the internet has undergone significant changes over the years. As new words gain popularity online, reflecting what's trending in popular culture, it becomes clear that our dynamic with the internet is constantly evolving. One recent example of this is the word 'rizz,' which means the ability to attract a romantic partner, derived from the shortened version of 'charisma.' This word was even crowned as the Oxford Word of the Year for 2023, emphasizing how internet slang can shape and influence language.
However, as new internet slang emerges, it is also interesting to note the words and abbreviations that have become obsolete over time. One such abbreviation that has fallen out of use is 'brb,' which stands for 'be right back.' In the past, it was common to use this term when momentarily leaving the computer. It represented a time when the internet was confined to a specific location or computer, and leaving that spot meant disconnecting from the virtual world.
A post that went viral at the end of last year captured the nostalgia of the early-2000s internet. The image of an old desktop computer reminded people of a time when the internet was a separate and distinct entity, rather than an omnipresent force in our lives. One user pointed out that the internet used to be a 'single, solitary, unmoving place instead of a terror that extends to everywhere.' Leaving the computer meant leaving the internet altogether.
However, with the advancements in technology and the rise of social media, the internet has now become an inseparable part of our lives. We can access it from anywhere, at any time, making it a constant presence. Rather than saying 'brb,' people now recognize that they live in this online realm, always connected and only a tap away from the internet.
The post's message resonated with millions, garnering nearly 12 million views and 353,000 likes. It even reached TikTok, where users shared the tweet, acknowledging both the benefits of the internet and the importance of taking breaks from it. In a video with 840,000 views, a user made an interesting observation that the abbreviation 'brb' is no longer in use because the internet has merged with our lives to the point where we are always connected. They humorously suggested that a more accurate abbreviation for our internet usage nowadays would be 'FAAO' (Forever and always online).
People who remember the early days of accessing the internet through a family computer reminisced about those times. Some recalled simpler activities like playing with paint on the computer, while others fondly remembered using MSN Messenger to chat with friends after school. The shift in how we interact with the internet was evident to them.
The internet has transitioned from being a separate, contained space into an all-encompassing presence that surrounds us. As one individual astutely put it, 'We used to go INTO, and out of, the internet. Now, it's all around us, inescapable.' It has become our 'third space,' a virtual realm where we spend a significant portion of our time. This shift in our relationship with the internet reflects the changing nature of our social interactions and the impact of technology on our lives.
While this new era offers numerous benefits and opportunities for connection and information, it is essential to recognize the importance of finding balance and spending time offline. As the internet becomes an integral part of our existence, taking breaks and disconnecting can be more challenging. Nevertheless, it's crucial to prioritize our mental well-being and strive for a healthy relationship with both the online and offline worlds.
As our relationship with the internet continues to evolve, it's fascinating to reflect on the changes we've witnessed. The transition from 'brb' to a constant online presence underscores how much the digital landscape has transformed. Perhaps, in the future, we will develop new ways to navigate this digital realm or find new abbreviations and words to capture the essence of our ever-evolving relationship with the internet.
