On social media and forums, PM almost always means “private message” — the direct, one-to-one equivalent of a DM (direct message). “PM me” is an invitation to take a public conversation private.
Outside social media, PM is the abbreviation for “post meridiem”, marking afternoon and evening hours: 1 PM = 13:00, 11 PM = 23:00. The opposite is AM (“ante meridiem”).
Context tells you which one is meant. “PM me for prices” = private message. “Calling at 4 PM” = afternoon.
Examples
How PM reads in the wild.
- “PM me for the catering menu and pricing”
- “Kitchen closes at 9 PM tonight — last orders 8:30”
Where you’ll see it
Common questions
What does PM mean?
PM stands for "Private Message / Post Meridiem". Either “private message” (online) or “post meridiem” (after noon, time). Context decides.
How is PM used?
On social media and forums, PM almost always means “private message” — the direct, one-to-one equivalent of a DM (direct message). “PM me” is an invitation to take a public conversation private. Outside social media, PM is the abbreviation for “post meridiem”, marking afternoon and evening hours: 1 PM = 13:00, 11 PM = 23:00. The opposite is AM (“ante meridiem”). Context tells you which one is meant. “PM me for prices” = private message. “Calling at 4 PM” = afternoon.
Where will I see PM?
PM is commonly used on Reddit, Forums, Email, Calendars.