send a direct message

Meaning

To send a private message to someone on a social media platform, rather than posting publicly on their feed or profile. It is often abbreviated as 'DM' and is widely used in digital entertainment, online networking, and daily casual conversations.

Examples

• If you want the link to the tickets, just send me a direct message.

  If you want the link to the tickets, just send me a direct message.

• She sent a direct message to her favorite actor, but she didn't expect a reply.

  She sent a direct message to her favorite actor, but she didn't expect a reply.

• I don't like discussing business in public comments, so please send a direct message.

  I don't like discussing business in public comments, so please send a direct message.

• Did you send a direct message to the page administrator about the giveaway?

  Did you send a direct message to the page administrator about the giveaway?

• He received hundreds of direct messages after his video went viral.

  He received hundreds of direct messages after his video went viral.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I will send a direct message for you.

  ✓ I will send you a direct message.

  In English, we send a message 'to' someone, or we send someone a message directly. Using 'for you' in this context sounds like you are sending a message on behalf of someone else.

• ✗ Send me direct message on Instagram.

  ✓ Send me a direct message on Instagram.

  'Direct message' is a countable noun, so it requires an article like 'a' when referring to a single instance.

Related Expressions

Practice

• If you have any questions about the concert, please ___ to our official page.

  💡 Write to us privately on social media.

  Show answer

  send a direct message

• I decided to ___ to the artist to ask if the painting was still for sale.

  💡 Use a private messaging feature on their profile.

  Show answer

  send a direct message