Understanding the Meaning and Usage of 'this AM' in Modern Communication

The abbreviation 'this AM' is commonly used in casual conversations, particularly in emails and text messages, to refer to occurrences or discussions that took place this morning. For example, if you missed an email sent by your colleague today, you might say, 'Didn't receive your email this AM.' It's a succinct and informal way to convey that the email in question was sent earlier in the morning on the same day.

Usage in Casual Communication

'This AM' is a colloquialism that has gained popularity in contemporary language. Unlike formal settings such as business letters, where precision and clarity are paramount, in casual communication, abbreviations like 'this AM' are widely accepted and understood.

The Evolution of Time Notation

In the United States and other countries, time is often distinguished between the morning and the afternoon. The American system counts from 12:01 a.m. to noon as 'morning' and from 12:01 p.m. to midnight as 'afternoon and evening.' Thus, a breakfast meeting scheduled for tomorrow will be referred to as '8:00 a.m.,' pronounced as 'eight a.m.' Conversely, an evening event will be scheduled for '5:00 p.m.,' said as 'five p.m.' Occasionally, there might be a playful joke, with someone saying 'I’ll see you in the a.m.' to add a touch of humor, although it is rare to hear someone joke about a 'p.m.' event.

Why 'this AM' Can Be Misleading

While 'this AM' is widely recognized in casual settings, it can be confusing in contexts where the precise meaning is critical. For example, in Latin, 'AM' stands for 'ante meridiem,' meaning 'before noon.' However, without additional context, 'this AM' could refer to any of the following:

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Understanding the context is crucial to decipher the correct meaning.

For instance:

Before May 2020: 'this AM' referred to a specific member of The Welsh Assembly, known as 'MS - Member of Senedd.' This usage is now rare due to the changing terminology in Welsh governance. Today: 'this AM' most likely refers to 'this morning.' For instance, 'I sent you an email this AM' indicates the message was sent early in the morning today.

Conclusion

In modern communication, abbreviations like 'this AM' enhance brevity and informality. However, their usage can sometimes lead to confusion if the context is not clear. Understanding the common usage and potential ambiguities is essential for effective communication. Whether you are a casual correspondent or a professional, knowing the nuances of such abbreviations can significantly improve your interactions.