I've done a search for help with this but didn't find anything.

I am looking for some help with terminology that is used on ATS frequently.

I've only been here a little while and I've already caught on to a lot of it. The main thing I'm wondering about right now is what does it mean when someone says.

Second Line

I see that a lot and don't get it. I'm sure I'll bonk my head when someone tells me what it means though.

But it would be helpful to have some kind of guide for frequently used Anagrams and terminology that is used in the forums. If there is such a guide could someone please link it for me?

Thanks in advance!

Thats funny
second line...its from the character limit restricions put into affect a year or so ago, minimal posts will not post, so many use it as a character "filler"

One line posts are frowned upon apparently, so alot of people include a second line called...second line to try and bypass this measure. I got told off by the overlord himself once. Better to either keep your mouth shut,write more than one line...or write what you have to say then fill the rest with pointless drivel until it amounts to two lines.

TPTB= The powers that be.

Man, that one had me confused for a bit.

I think the "second line" thing is silly also. If you have ever written a term paper, or a book report, then you essentially have the skills to write more than one line.

I think the "second line" thing is silly also. If you have ever written a term paper, or a book report, then you essentially have the skills to write more than one line.

Agreed.

Not to mention that with the very rare exception involving a unique situation, If you have to get creative to lengthen your post to two lines, you should probably re-consider your post in the first place.

The rule makes sense to prevent threads of followers answering a good post with pages of "ditto" or "I agree with ____", but as with all rules...

well, you know

Wow thanks everyone for the replies. Very helpful and much appreciated!

I usually can figure out most of the abbreviations but the Second Line thing just wasn't kicking in.

Originally posted by yeahright
Couple of misconceptions.

There's nothing at all wrong with a one line post that adds something to the thread. A single line post can be not only appropriate, but I've actually applauded some. It isn't a literal prohibition on a single line of text.

Thanks for clearing that up there seems to be a bit of confusion.
I try to avoid single line responses but once in a while a single line is a perfect response when on-topic.

MSM = Main Stream Media

Why is that one not at the top? It's ridiculed enough for you to just know, I guess.

[edit on 23-11-2009 by Nematode]

i'm glad i found this thread, i was scratching my head at TPTB. it makes sense now and am a little upset i couldnt figure that out on my own i even figured out s&f on my own. jeesh, i feel pretty foolish now. thanks all!!!!