what does gg really mean

As internet acronyms go, "GG" is among the most popular. It's also among the most polarizing, because depending on when and how it's typed, it can be very polite or incredibly rude.

What does GG mean?

GG stands for "good game," and is meant to be a sign of good sportsmanship in online games. By saying "GG" at the end of a match, you're signaling both that you enjoyed the game and that your opponent put up a good fight.

Consider it the online equivalent of shaking your opponent's hand after a real-life game. It's a show of respect.

computer gamers gaming

The acronym GG is popular in online gaming communities. adamkaz/Getty Images

There's no documented case of the first time GG was used, but there's little doubt that the acronym started among gamers in the late 1990s, when online multiplayer games first began to gain popularity. It didn't take long for the phrase to become customary among polite players at the end of a match.

These days, it's used in nearly every online game that has text or voice chat. Games like "Rocket League" even have it as a Quick Chat option, meaning that you can just press a button to have the game type and send "GG" for you.

In "League of Legends," saying GG after your matches can earn you "Honors." These Honors, given to players that others love to play with, can earn you special or exclusive rewards.

Variations on GG

The abbreviation "GG" has seen various adaptations over time, and today, several versions are widely recognized. 

"GG WP" stands for "good game, well played." It's a sportsmanlike compliment that can be offered by winners or losers to acknowledge their opponent's abilities.

"GL HF" translates to "good luck, have fun." This phrase is typically used at the beginning of a game to set a friendly tone by wishing opponents well.

"GG NO RE" means "good game, no rematch." Often, this is expressed by a player who has lost decisively and prefers not to engage in another round.

"GG EZ" is short for "good game, easy." It's generally used to taunt a defeated opponent by suggesting the game was effortlessly won. However, internet slang can be nuanced; sometimes, the phrase might be used ironically by a losing player or as a discreet praise by the victor.