Explanation

  • A common way to say goodbye, specifically implying future verbal communication (phone call, chat, next meeting).
  • Often abbreviated as TTYL in text/chat.

Origin

  • Straightforward phrasing, arising naturally with the prevalence of phone calls and later, online communication.

Alternatives

  • See the comprehensive list under expressions 0078-0090 and the general 'Alternatives for Farewells' section below 0090.

Situational Appropriateness

  • Informal to semi-formal.
  • Very common in phone calls, video calls, and chat messages. Also used in person if future conversation is the focus.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Low risk. Meaning is clear.

Examples

  • (Ending a phone call) Okay, I need to go now, but talk to you later.
  • Sounds like a plan. Talk to you later!
  • Let me know when you have an update. Talk to you later.

Dialogue

Anna: I have to jump onto another call now.

Ben: Okay, no problem. Send me the notes when you can?

Anna: Will do. Talk to you later!

Ben: Talk soon, bye.

Social Media Examples

  • Ending a DM: Gotta sign off for now, talk to you later!
  • Text message: On my way! Almost there. Ok talk to you later (meaning when they arrive)

Response Patterns

  • Okay, talk soon.
  • Alright, talk to you later.
  • Sounds good, bye.
  • You too, bye.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • None typically, unless specifying when the next talk will be (Talk to you tomorrow?).

Conversation Starter

  • No. Ends a conversation or call.

Intonation

  • Friendly, neutral tone.
  • Falling intonation. Stress can be on Talk or la-(ter). Talk to you later.

Generation Differences

  • Universal. Used across all generations familiar with phone/digital communication. The abbreviation TTYL is more generational (Millennials/Gen X primarily).

Regional Variations

  • Universal in English-speaking regions.
Later