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Let's Get Digital: Texting Is New Language Of Love

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By KEITH MORELLI

kmorelli@tampatrib.com

Published: February 12, 2009

U R 2GTBT

For those unfamiliar with the language of texting, that little ditty (you are too good to be true) may be among the most passed back and forth this Valentine's Day, as electronic love notes inch toward taking the place of poetry on restaurant napkins and amorous letters from distant lovers.

Last year, AT&T reported that text messaging spiked by 33 percent on Feb. 13 and 14. That's a lot of AMLs (all my love) passed back and forth and propositions for D8s (dates).

A recent survey by the telephone and communications giant says that this year, an increase of 36 percent is expected for QTs (cuties) who will send either text messages or text photos to paramours for Valentine's Day.

Still, there's something to be said for old habits. About 67 percent surveyed planned to send a traditional card.

The survey also said that of those planning to send lovey-dovey texts on Valentine's Day, two out of three will send messages to someone with whom they're in a relationship. That third person will text a friend or family member.

Nearly half of those who plan to text say they will send five or more Valentine's Day messages.

The survey, which involved 1,002 cell phone owners older than 18, also said that:

•48 percent of texters say that getting a romantic message on Valentine's Day will have the same or more meaning than a card.

•68 percent say that receiving a Valentine's Day photo message means as much or more than a card.

•67 percent have used text messaging to flirt.

•84 percent say that text messages, such as FTBOMH (from the bottom of my heart), can be misunderstood.

•58 percent admit to sometimes showing a friend a received text message from a love interest to get a second opinion on what it actually means.

Reporter Keith Morelli can be reached at (813) 259-7760.

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