How to Use or Interpret "BRB"

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Brb is shorthand for "be right back".

   You may take as much time as you would like to return, here is a system to decide approximately when you will return.
   
   Less than 5 minutes- you are talking to a good friend and are having a good conversation, you actually mean you'll be right back. 5-15 minutes- you aren't really leaving, but you want to get out of the conversation for one reason or another, you might actually be going somewhere, but you don't really intend to return to the conversation, this is an easy way to end a conversation short.
   
   More than 15 minutes- you never really wanted to talk to this person, so right when the conversation is initiated you respond "hold up, brb" but never return, you probably don't like this person very much, and they are not a good enough friend to be honest and say that you are too busy to talk to them at the moment.
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   Step 2: When instant messaging/text messaging

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   Step 3: say 'brb' whenever you are going to leave.

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   Step 4: When you are talking to someone you love and you don't want them to go away

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   Step 5: while you have some urgent work that needs immediate attention

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   Step 6: say 'brb'

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   Step 7: but make sure don't make them wait too long.

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   Step 8: Understand that even though you literally said "I will be right back"

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   Step 9: you are under no obligation to actually return.

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    Step 10: Know that you aren't actually committed to any particular time period.

Detailed Guide

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