WYLL Meaning: What It Means & How to Respond

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Decode your latest Snapchat message with this handy guide
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Texting or DMing someone you don’t know well can feel like a minefield—especially when they start throwing out messages like “WYLL.” What exactly does this cryptic DM mean, though, and how are you supposed to respond to it? We’ve covered everything you need to know, including how to respond (and whether or not you should just leave the person on read).

Things You Should Know

  • WYLL stands for “What You Look Like.” It’s often used to request a photo from a stranger or acquaintance, or to playfully poke fun at someone.
  • Use WYLL if you’ve recently started chatting with someone online and want to know what they look like. You can also use WYLL to tease a friend.
  • Use your best judgment when replying to a WYLL message. Feel free to send a pic if you’d like, or set clear boundaries if you’re feeling uncomfortable.
Section 1 of 3:

What does WYLL mean on Snapchat?

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    WYLL is a common abbreviation sent over DM, used as shorthand for the question “What do you look like?” People typically send this message to people they don’t know well (like a stranger or acquaintance), in hopes that they’ll get a selfie or picture of the person in response. [1]
    • Since this question is pretty personal, you’re more likely to see WYLL in your DMs rather than in a comment or reply.
    • WYLL means the same thing across all digital platforms, like TikTok, Roblox, texting, and more.
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Section 2 of 3:

How to Use WYLL

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    Maybe you made a new friend on Snapchat, or you’ve been hitting it off with someone you met on TikTok. If you’re really curious to know what they look like IRL, shoot a quick WYLL and see if they send you a picture. [2] Don’t be too disappointed if they refuse to send anything back, though—some people might not be super comfy sending pics to people they don’t know super well.
    • “WYLL? I’ve only ever seen pics of your cat in your Snap Story lmao”
    • “Tbh I’m so curious wyll”
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    Use “WYLL” at the start of your sentence to make fun of how someone is acting/reacting to something. Start off the message with “WYLL…” and then follow up with your silly quip, along with a picture or gif of how you’re imagining them at that moment. [3]
    • “WYLL trying to submit that essay before midnight” [gif of Kermit the frog typing furiously]
    • “WYLL in the Twitter replies rn” [gif of kittens fighting]
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Section 3 of 3:

How to Respond to WYLL

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    Think about how you feel about the person you’re chatting with. Do you feel comfortable enough sharing something like a selfie with them? If you’ve been sharing some fun vibes with this person (and they haven’t triggered your “creeper” radar), it could be worth sending a quick selfie over. It’s completely fair to set boundaries as well, and let them know that you won’t send them any pics.
    • Them: “WYLL?”
      You: [picture of yourself]
    • Them: “wyll”
      You: “Lol I don’t think we’re quite there yet”
    • You can always use a Bitmoji sticker on Snapchat if you aren’t quite ready to send an actual picture of yourself. [4]
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    If you’re chatting with a perfect stranger, a sudden “WYLL” message can be pretty jarring, especially if it’s sent to you right off the bat. Remember—there’s absolutely no obligation to respond to anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable, and no one is automatically entitled to any pictures of you.
    • Pro tip: Your safety and well-being always come first, especially when you’re online. If someone ever makes you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to block and report their account. If you’re texting someone who makes you feel weird, block their number .
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    Let your friend know what you think about the comparison they’ve just made—if all else fails, a quick “LOL” or “hahaha” can do the trick. If you’d like, feel free to throw out an Uno reverse card by sending your own “WYLL” message back at them, making fun of them in an equally goofy way.
    • Them: “WYLL waiting for Matt to text you back” [gif of a person sweating]
      You: “STOP I feel so called out rn 😭”
    • Them: “WYLL waiting for the Jags to make it to the Super Bowl” [picture of a skeleton]
      You: “WYLL expecting the Ravens to have a good season” [gif of person putting on clown makeup]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://slang.net/meaning/wyll
      2. ↑ https://slangsearch.org/social-media/wyll/
      3. ↑ https://www.thesun.ie/tech/9358700/what-does-wyll-mean-on-tiktok-and-snapchat/
      4. ↑ https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/world-news/what-nr-sfs-jw-bmt-25485118

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      • Honey V.

        Jul 20, 2023

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