Here's something we do that makes no sense

We all know what "LOL" means. The ubiquitous acronym for "laughing out loud," it's likely you use it at least once a week while conversing online with friends, relatives or coworkers.

But how often have you used the acronym while really laughing out loud? It's a safe bet that you've done this only a couple of times, if ever. What's more, I wouldn't be surprised if some of us have typed and sent people an LOL with a straight face.

In truth, it might be better to put LIS -- laughing inside -- rather than LOL, because the former is what we actually do. Or, how about ILT, which could stand for I like that.

LOL is what we employ to indicate that something the other person tells us is amusing in some way. You may actually let out a small chuckle, but really: How often do you hear people laughing aloud, let alone when chatting with someone online?

Maybe we just haven't come up with the right acronym that captures feeling amused. A Facebook "like" or a smiley face seems more apropos. After all, you can like and appreciate what someone says without necessarily finding it funny.

Do you think LOL is used for the wrong reasons? Do you like any of my suggested acronyms or have others in mind? Please share them!

For earlier entries, click here: How to Understand People

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