Opt means to choose or agree to something
When someone texts "opt" or uses it in an online conversation, they are saying they choose to do something or agree to participate. The word comes from "option" — it means you are making a choice. In texting, "opt" is shorthand for a longer phrase, usually "opt in" (to agree to something) or "opt out" (to decline or stop something).
You will see "opt" most often in two contexts: when someone is choosing to join something, or when they are choosing to leave it. The context around the word tells you which one is happening. If a friend texts "I'm opting in to game night," they mean they want to participate. If they text "I'm opting out," they mean they do not want to participate.
Key Takeaways
- "Opt in" means to choose to participate in or receive something, like joining a group chat or signing up for notifications.
- "Opt out" means to choose not to participate or to stop receiving something, like leaving a mailing list or declining an invitation.
- In texting, people often shorten these to just "opt" when the direction (in or out) is clear from context.
- Companies use "opt in" and "opt out" language on websites and in emails to let you control what you receive.
Opt in: choosing to join or receive something
"Opt in" means you are actively choosing to participate in something or to receive something. When you opt in, you are saying yes. This phrase is common in two places: in text conversations with friends, and on websites or in emails from companies.
In a text from a friend, "opt in" is casual. Someone might text "I'm opting in to the road trip" or "opt me in for the Secret Santa." They are saying they want to be part of it. In company emails or on websites, "opt in" is more formal. A newsletter might ask "Would you like to opt in to our weekly updates?" or a website might have a checkbox that says "Opt in to receive promotional emails." When you check that box, you are choosing to receive those emails.
Opt out: choosing to decline or stop
"Opt out" means you are choosing not to participate or to stop receiving something. When you opt out, you are saying no or "stop sending me this." This is the opposite of opting in.
In texts, someone might write "I'm opting out of the group project" or "opt me out of the chat." On websites and in emails, you will see "opt out" at the bottom of marketing emails — usually a link that says "Unsubscribe" or "Opt out of future emails." Clicking that link removes you from the mailing list. Many websites also let you change your notification settings so you can opt out of certain types of messages while staying opted in to others.
Why companies use opt in and opt out language
Companies use "opt in" and "opt out" because laws in many places require them to let you control what you receive. The rules are different depending on where you live and what kind of message it is. For marketing emails, most companies must let you opt out — they cannot keep sending you emails if you have asked them to stop. For text messages and push notifications, many companies require you to opt in first before they can send you anything.
This is why you often see checkboxes on websites asking if you want to receive emails or texts. The company is asking for your permission to send you messages. If you do not check the box, you have opted out before they even start. If you do check it, you have opted in.
How to opt out of emails and texts you do not want
If you are receiving emails or texts you do not want, you can opt out. For emails, look at the very bottom of the message. Almost every marketing email has an "Unsubscribe" link or text that says "Opt out of future emails." Click or tap that link, and you will be removed from the mailing list. It usually takes effect within a few days.
For text messages, the process depends on who is sending them. If it is a company, the text usually includes instructions for opting out — often something like "Reply STOP to unsubscribe." If you reply with that word, the company will stop sending you texts. If it is a friend or group chat, you can usually leave the conversation or mute notifications without opting out entirely. If someone keeps texting you after you have asked them to stop, that is a different problem — you may need to block them instead.
Opt in versus opt out: which one is the default
The difference between opt in and opt out matters because it changes what happens if you do nothing. With "opt in," you have to actively choose to receive something — if you do not check a box or click a link, you do not get it. With "opt out," you are automatically receiving something unless you choose to stop — if you do not unsubscribe, the emails or texts keep coming.
Companies prefer opt out because more people stay on the list if they have to take action to leave. But many places now have laws that require opt in for certain types of messages, especially text messages and marketing emails. This means the company has to ask your permission first, and you have to say yes before they can send you anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between opt in and opt out?
Opt in means you choose to receive something or participate in something. Opt out means you choose not to receive it or to stop receiving it. With opt in, nothing happens unless you say yes. With opt out, you are already receiving it unless you say stop.
If I opt out of emails, will the company delete my account?
No. Opting out of emails only stops the marketing messages. Your account stays active, and you can still use the service or website. You will just not receive promotional emails anymore. You may still get important account notifications like password changes or billing updates.
Can a company keep sending me emails if I opt out?
No. If you have unsubscribed or opted out, the company is legally required to stop sending you marketing emails. If they keep sending them after you have opted out, you can report them. However, they may still send you emails about your account or orders you have placed.
What does it mean if someone texts "opt"?
It depends on context. If they say "opt in," they are choosing to participate. If they say "opt out," they are choosing not to participate. Sometimes people just write "opt" when the meaning is clear from the conversation — like if someone asks "Are you coming?" and you reply "opt out," meaning no.
Is opting out the same as unsubscribing?
Yes, in most cases. Unsubscribe and opt out mean the same thing — you are asking to stop receiving emails or messages from a company. The terms are used interchangeably, though "unsubscribe" is more common for emails and "opt out" is more common for texts and notifications.