What does IG mean?
"IG" could mean anything depending on the context but there are only two genuinely used variations in the English speaking world. Globally the most common use for IG is to abbreviate Instagram. Some common examples would be things like; "Check out my IG!", "What's your ig?". So if someone asks you for your IG maybe it's time for you to make one and secure that date. The secondary but also super common meaning is an abbreviation for "I guess", mostly used as a short dry reply but could also be used as it normally would. So if you see someone saying something ridiculous online, a natural reply you would notice is "ig". Could also be used in cases like "ig im down", instead of "I guess I am down to hang out". Or, "ig thats fine" instead of "I guess that's fine". You would think people who sit on social media all day wouldn't care that much to save a couple milliseconds on typing but they do.
Purpose of IG
Most of the time if it's not about Instagram, it's used as "I guess".
It's mostly used to increase the flow of conversation by smoothening it, or to soften a statement. For example instead of stating directly "It could work" you could say "ig it could work", almost no difference visually but the reader gets a different vibe. The direct example seems more negative and doubtful, and the softened example could be read as more of a hopeful neutral statement rather than someone doubting.
Does IG have other meanings?
Absolutely, but much more niche so this only applies if you are in that specific niche.
Professional
Inspector General: A high rank government official/investigator who oversees and audits agencies to prevent abuse and waste.
Imperial Gallon: Liquid measurement unit used in the UK and parts of the Commonwealth. For most humans this would equal to 4.54 liters
Intergovernmental: Used in international relations to refer to organizations and agreements between governments. (Most commonly referred to as IGOs)
Science & Medicine
Immunoglobulin: A protein created by the immune system used to fight off infections and viruses.
Integrated Gasification: A term in energy production, particularly used in IGCC (Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle) power plants that turn coal into gas.
In-Group: A term in sociology and psychology describing a social group to which a person psychologically identifies as a member.
Gaming & Finance
In-Game: Used by gamers to refer to items, events, currency and everything else which is literally inside the game.
IG Group: A major international trading company based in London, this is almost guaranteed not something you would see someone talk about on TikTok.
Investment Grade: A rating for bonds indicating a relatively low risk of defaulting.