What Does TC Mean in Texting and Online?

The acronym TC means "take care." It's another way of saying goodbye in online chat rooms or by text or email.

This texting abbreviation is often spelled in lowercase letters as tc, but uppercase letters are just as acceptable.

TC is used to politely express farewell salutations toward a regular member of an online community. When someone is about to log off and be absent for a while, such as overnight, it's common to say TC before leaving.

TC can also be used to sign off a text exchange or email communication with warmth and politeness.

• (User 1) OK, peeps. I have to log off for the night, wife is calling me. See you guys tomorrow!​
• (User 2) tc, man. see you tomorrow
• (User 3) Thanks so much for your help today! TC!
• (User 4) You've had a really tough week! tc this weekend

• (User 1) I had such a nice time tonight! See you at the meeting next week!
• (User 2) Me too! TC and I'll see you next time.

Terms that are related to TC include:

• ADBB (all done, bye-bye)
• B4N (bye for now)
• BFN (bye for now)
• BBFN (bye-bye for now)
• CU (see you)
• TLC (tender loving care)
• TCB (taking care of business)
• TTFN (ta ta for now)
• TTYL (talk to you later)

Capitalization is a non-concern when using text abbreviations and chat jargon. Use all uppercase or all lowercase letters and the meaning is identical.

Never use periods (dots) between your acronym letters; it would defeat the purpose of being a shortcut. For example, TTYL would never be T.T.Y.L. 

When tempted to use an acronym, evaluate who your audience is. If you know someone well and it is a personal and informal communication, then absolutely use abbreviations. On the flip side, if you are just starting a friendship or professional relationship, avoid abbreviations until you've developed a rapport.

If messaging in a professional context with someone at work, or with a customer or vendor outside your company, avoid abbreviations altogether. Spelling out full words shows professionalism and courtesy. It is much smarter to err on the side of being too professional at first, and then relax your communication over time organically.