Why is * used in chat?

Why is * used in chat?

The asterisk symbol, also known as the star, is an incredibly versatile and popular character used in many different contexts. In the world of online chat, it has become a widely accepted symbol for various uses. Whether you’re chatting on social media or in a chatroom, you’re likely to come across the asterisk symbol.

The most common use of the asterisk in chat is to indicate a correction or clarification. For example, if you type a message and make a mistake, you can use an asterisk followed by the correct version of the word or phrase. This is a quick and easy way to fix typos and mistakes without having to delete the entire message.

The asterisk can also be used to indicate emphasis. By adding an asterisk before and after a word or phrase, you can add an extra layer of emphasis to your statement. This is especially useful if you want to draw attention to a specific part of your message.

The asterisk is also often used to indicate a pause or break in a conversation. If you need to take a break from chatting, you can type an asterisk or two to indicate that you’re taking a moment. This is a polite way to let your chat partner know that you’ll be back soon.

The asterisk is also used in chatrooms to denote private messages. By typing an asterisk followed by a username, you can send a private message to that person. This is a useful way to communicate privately in a public chatroom.

The asterisk can also be used to indicate sarcasm. If you’re typing a sarcastic message, you can add an asterisk before or after the phrase to indicate that you’re being sarcastic. This is a subtle way to add a bit of humor to your chat.

Finally, the asterisk can be used to indicate that you’re telling a joke. By adding an asterisk to the beginning or end of a joke, you can let your chat partner know that you’re telling a joke and that they should not take your statement seriously.

In conclusion, the asterisk is an incredibly versatile and useful symbol in the world of online chat. It can be used to indicate corrections, emphasis, pauses, private messages, sarcasm, and jokes. If you’re ever chatting online, make sure to take advantage of this powerful symbol.



The asterisk is an incredibly versatile and useful symbol in the world of online chat. It has many different uses and can be used to indicate corrections, emphasis, pauses, private messages, sarcasm, and jokes. By understanding how to properly use the asterisk in chat, you can make your conversations more efficient and enjoyable.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top