Demystifying Snapchat Lingo for Better Business Connections: What Does "TS" Mean on Snapchat?

As a fellow entrepreneur trying to grow my business, I know how important it is to understand modern communication styles and connect with younger demographics. That‘s why as someone who got their start as a small business owner, I want to help decompose exactly what terms like "TS" mean on platforms like Snapchat.

The Explosive Growth of Snapchat Presents Opportunities

With over 90% of 13-24 year olds and 75% of 13-34 year olds using Snapchat as of 2022, it‘s the platform of choice for the valuable Gen Z and Millennial demographics. With Snapchat‘s global active users growing over 20% year-over-year, its influence continues to expand rapidly.

Chart showing Snapchat's growth in active users from 2016-2022

As entrepreneurs, we can‘t afford to ignore the marketing and engagement opportunities these demographics represent. But to connect with them effectively, we need to understand Snapchat‘s unique culture and language.

Why Learning Snapchat Lingo Matters for Businesses

Snapchat features like Stories and disappearing messages have created an environment optimized for casual conversations and insider terminology. For businesses trying to engage audiences on Snapchat, it‘s essential to learn these terms to avoid confusion.

Some of the most popular Snapchat acronyms include:

  • SN – Snap
  • SS – Screenshot
  • SFS – Snapchat For Snapchat (exchanging Snapchat usernames)
  • SMH – Shaking My Head
  • ICYMI – In Case You Missed It

Failing to understand abbreviations like these can isolate you from the conversations where you want your brand to participate. Just as importantly, using the lingo properly helps you connect authentically.

Okay, But What Does "TS" Mean on Snapchat?

Now that we‘ve covered why it‘s vital for brands to understand Snapchat acronyms, let‘s decompose exactly what one of the most common terms means:

TS = Time Stamp

The time stamp shows the exact time a Snap (photo or video) was sent or received in a conversation.

For example, if you upload a photo to your Story at 5:03 PM, recipients who view it will see "5:03 PM" displayed on the Snap as a time stamp.

Why TS Matters: Giving Context to Conversations

At first glance, a time stamp may seem like a minor detail. But for Snapchat‘s fast-paced, in-the-moment communication style, it provides vital context.

The ephemeral nature of Snaps means conversations can be confusing to revisit later. The time stamp allows you to pinpoint exactly when certain Snaps were sent in relation to others.

For brands using Snapchat to engage audiences, time stamps allow you to:

  • Analyze when your followers are most active – Notice if they‘re viewing Snaps in the morning versus evening.
  • Optimize timing for promotions – Send offers when your audience is most likely to see them.
  • Respond to messages appropriately – Reference the time stamp if you reply to a message hours later.

Tips for Using TS Effectively

Here are some tips on leveraging time stamps for better Snapchat conversations:

  • Check time stamps before replying if a conversation has spanned hours or days. Reference the timing in your reply if the context is unclear.
  • Use time stamps to gauge when your best customers are viewing Snaps and tailor your posting times accordingly.
  • Analyze time stamps on Snaps you send for promotions to see when engagement peaked and optimize future campaigns.
  • Add captions reminding followers to check time stamps if your Story covers events across multiple days.

The Bottom Line

Snapchat‘s unique culture and conversational style means there‘s a whole vocabulary to master for brands marketing on the platform. Taking the time to learn what terms like "TS" mean allows you to engage followers authentically and optimize your strategy.

I hope this explanation of Snapchat lingo from a fellow entrepreneur is helpful as you grow your business and connect with younger demographics! Let me know in the comments if you have any other Snapchat terms you want decoded.