The first time I saw someone from New York text “tp” in a group chat, I was confused. Was it about toilet paper?
A typo? Or something totally different? If you’ve ever received a message like “i’m outside tp” or “tp bro” and had no idea what it meant, you’re not alone. New York slang moves fast, especially in texting and social media.
Quick Answer: TP means “Third Person.” It’s a casual and social-media–friendly way of referring to someone who isn’t part of the conversation directly.
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly how to use it and when not to.
🧠 What Does TP Mean in Text?
In New York texting slang, TP stands for “Third Person.”
It’s used when talking about someone who isn’t directly involved in the current chat or situation. Instead of naming the person repeatedly, people just say “tp.”
For example:
“I don’t like when tp be acting weird.”
Here, “tp” refers to someone not in the chat.
In some contexts, especially in NYC street-style texting, it can also imply “that person” in a dismissive or indirect way.
In short:
TP = Third Person = Someone not in the conversation
It’s quick, subtle, and commonly used in group chats or social media comments.
📱 Where Is TP Commonly Used?
You’ll mostly see “tp” in casual online spaces, especially in urban texting culture and New York-based slang.
Here’s where it’s popular:
- 📲 Text Messages – Especially in group chats
- 👻 Snapchat – Private stories and DMs
- 🎵 TikTok comments – NYC slang trends
- 🎮 Gaming chats – Talking about someone not present
- 💬 Instagram DMs – Casual convos
🟢 Tone: Casual
🟢 Style: Social-media–friendly
🔴 Not formal
It’s not something you’d use in emails, school essays, or professional settings.
💬 Examples of TP in Conversation
Here are some realistic chat examples so you can see how it flows naturally:
Example 1
A: why tp always late? 😭
B: idk bro they never on time
Example 2
A: tp was talking yesterday
B: fr? what they say?
Example 3
A: don’t invite tp
B: say less 😂
Example 4
A: tp think they funny
B: nah fr they be doing too much
Example 5
A: i’m not arguing with tp again
B: as you shouldn’t 😌
Example 6
A: tp outside
B: tell them wait
Notice how “tp” replaces a name. It keeps things short and sometimes slightly indirect.
🕓 When to Use and When Not to Use TP
Like all slang, context matters.
✅ When to Use TP
- Casual chats with friends
- Group conversations
- Social media comments
- When referring indirectly to someone
- Playful or slightly shady talk
❌ When NOT to Use TP
- Work emails
- Professional meetings
- Academic writing
- Serious or sensitive discussions
- Formal messages
Here’s a simple comparison:
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Friend Chat | “tp was wildin 😭” | Casual & natural |
| Group Chat | “don’t tell tp” | Short & indirect |
| Work Chat | “Please inform the team member.” | Professional tone |
| “Kindly notify the concerned person.” | Clear & formal |
Slang stays in casual spaces.
🔄 Similar Slang Words or Alternatives
Here are some similar or related expressions:
| Slang | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| op | Opponent / enemy | Street or NYC slang |
| they | Indirect reference | Casual texting |
| bro | Friend or person | Informal chats |
| shorty | Girl / person | NYC slang tone |
| that one | Someone indirect | Playful shade |
| lil bro | Slightly dismissive reference | Casual banter |
These alternatives help you switch tone depending on how serious or playful you want to sound.
❓ FAQs:
Is TP always “Third Person” in New York slang?
Yes, in texting context. However, outside slang it can mean other things like toilet paper but in NYC chat culture, it usually means “third person.”
Is TP disrespectful?
Not necessarily. It depends on tone. It can be neutral, playful, or slightly shady.
Can I use TP with adults or elders?
It’s better used among friends or peers. Avoid using it in formal or respectful conversations.
Is TP used outside New York?
It started trending in NYC slang culture but can now be seen on TikTok and other platforms nationwide.
Is TP flirty?
Not really. It’s more neutral or slightly indirect rather than romantic.
🧾 Conclusion
Now you won’t be confused the next time someone texts “tp” in a New York-style chat.
In texting slang, TP simply means “Third Person” a quick way to refer to someone not in the conversation. It’s casual, social-media–friendly, and commonly used in group chats or playful discussions. Just remember:
keep it in informal spaces and avoid using it in professional settings. Slang is all about vibe and context and now you’re officially in the loop. 🗽📱

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