What Does “ASAP” Mean?
Confusing slang in
ASAP
adverb Internet slang
translates to
Plain English out
As Soon As Possible — urgently, right now, without delay.
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The full meaning
ASAP means as soon as possible. It started as a military abbreviation in the 1950s and is now one of the most common abbreviations in global communication including WhatsApp group chats in Zimbabwe.
Where “asap” comes from
Appeared in American military communications in the 1950s. Spread through business culture then went fully mainstream with texting and WhatsApp.
How it’s actually used
Used in requests to signal urgency. 'Send me that ASAP' means now, not later.
The client needs those files ASAP.
Mum said come home ASAP.
I will send it ASAP, give me five minutes.
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For parents & teachers
Completely harmless. One of the safest abbreviations in the language.
Related slang
Last reviewed: 2026-08-20