Do you speak text? By that, I mean, communication in which your fingers do the talking.

Since you’re visiting our Web site, clearly you have some aptitude for high-tech gadgetry: computer, cell phone, Blackberry, laptop. But that doesn’t mean you speak the language.

In 2000, 17 billion text messages were sent. This year, that number will top 1.6 trillion worldwide. So, if you don’t speak “text” it’s high time you learn.

Let’s start with a little test of your “text” IQ. Can you translate the following “text” phrases to English? 143—iioYT-- B3-- Dbl8.

If you don’t know the answers, then you’re probably a beginner like me. They call us newbies. Here are the translations: I love you-- Is it on You Tube?-- Blah blah blah--, Don’t be late. These phrases are pretty common on chatlines, blogs, and Instant Messangers.

Unfortunately, texting isn’t just about having fun. There is a dark side. Just as most children and young adults are fluent in text speak, so are Internet predators. Here’s another set of “text” phrases: parNts r hre bt 404-- TDTM -- W8 CD9 MOS.

These are common online phrases, and a little unsettling if you’re a parent and you happen to see them on your child’s computer or cell phone. You might have reason for concern, but not know it. Here’s the translation: Parents are here, but clueless-- Talk dirty to me.—Wait! Parent alert-- Mom over shoulder.

If you’re a teen you’re saying, thanks a lot for giving up our secrets. If you’re a parent, you should be asking where can I learn to speak “text?” Here’s a great place to start.

A software engineer from Allen Park created a Web site called www.noslang.com. There you will find a translator, a dictionary, and links to useful pages about Internet safety.

So you’ve been promising yourself you would learn a second language. Now is the time to start.

Can you translate this text conversation?

Suprgirl1: parNts r hre bt 404

Sk8rboy: lk2 mEt F2F

Suprgirl1: Gr8 A3

Sk8rboy: TDTM

Suprgirl1: W8 CD9 MOS

Sk8rboy: 143

Suprgirl1: M2

Sk8rboy: CU l8r

For the translations go to, www.noslang.com.