# instant messaging

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/instant-messaging
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. the technology/system

noun · CEFR A2

a system for sending short text messages that appear on the other person's screen right away.

For teachers: a form of real-time communication where two or more people exchange short text messages via computers or mobile devices.

- We use instant messaging at work to ask quick questions without calling.
- The rise of instant messaging has significantly reduced the volume of internal emails within the corporate environment.

Usage: Often abbreviated as IM; functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the technology.

## Examples

- I use instant messaging to chat with my friends every day.
- The office switched to instant messaging to reduce the number of internal emails and get faster answers to simple questions.
- While email remains the standard for formal documentation, instant messaging has become the primary medium for rapid, informal collaboration within modern remote teams.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.