In the realm of informal written communication, the rise of social media and instant messaging has brought about various abbreviations and slang terms. One such example is the substitution of “thanks” with “thankz.” This can often lead to confusion, as many people wonder which version is the correct one to use. Today, as well as an IELTS tutor, I will learn this topic and provide you with a clear answer.
To put it simply, “thanks” is the correct and widely accepted spelling of the word. It is the standard and formal way of expressing gratitude. On the other hand, “thankz” is considered an informal and slang variation. While it may be acceptable in certain contexts, it is not universally recognized as the correct spelling.
When we refer to “thanks,” we are using the word as a noun or verb. As a noun, it means expressing gratitude or appreciation. For example, “I want to extend my thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the event.” As a verb, it means expressing gratitude towards someone. For instance, “I thanked her for her help.”
On the other hand, “thankz” is often seen as a shorthand or informal way of writing “thanks.” It originated in the world of instant messaging, where brevity is often prioritized. The addition of the “z” at the end serves the purpose of making the word shorter and quicker to type. However, its usage has not been widely embraced in formal settings, such as academic writing or professional emails.
To help illustrate the difference between the two, consider the following examples:
1. Formal context:
– “Thank you for your kind words of encouragement.”
– “He thanked the committee members for their time and effort.”
2. Informal context:
– “Thanks for helping me out with the project!”
– “Thankz 4 being there when I needed u!”
As you can see, the first set of examples uses the standard spelling of “thanks” in formal situations, whereas the second set utilizes the informal variation “thankz” in more casual contexts. However, it is essential to be mindful of the audience and appropriateness when choosing between the two.
Ultimately, it boils down to the level of formality and the desired impression you wish to convey. If you are writing an academic essay, a formal email, or a professional document, it is always best to use “thanks.” It showcases your language skills and adherence to accepted norms. On the other hand, if you are engaging in a lighthearted conversation with friends or acquaintances, the occasional use of “thankz” might be acceptable.
In conclusion, when it comes to the correct spelling of expressing gratitude, “thanks” is the universally recognized and proper version. “Thankz” is an informal variant, often used in casual communication. Remember to consider the context and formality when deciding between the two. Happy expressing of thanks!