Language is such a part of our lives. Have you tried to figure out your children's texting yet? How can they text a message consisting of 40 letters that takes us three paragraphs to write? Tell me the world hasn't speeded up. And I thought the age of computers was supposed to save us time. Well the world of sweepstaking is no different, it also has its own language sweepstakers use.

Below is a list of some commonly used acronyms and jargon to help you. Many contest publications use the terms below and you will also see them used in sweepstaking forums.

ACV- Actual Cash Value
Affidavit- Slang- Affy. A written statement made on oath,
as before a notary public.
Alternate- The original winner has declined the prize so they
choose another winner.
ARV- Actual Retail Value
ASAP- As soon as possible.
Certified Mail- A delivery that must be signed for by the recipient
Contest- Usually requires providing something such as a jingle,
a picture, an essay, etc. It usually requires skill.
DH- Web Slang- Darling Husband
DOB- Date of Birth
FAQ- Slang- Frequently asked Questions
FYI- Slang- For your information
Liquor Sweeps- Entrant must be at least 21 or older (depending on
state laws)
Must be Smoker- Any contest you enter, if you win, you will have to
sign a form stating that you are a smoker, so don't
fudge on this one.
NAZ- Slang- Name and full Address including zip code
Notary- An official authorized to certify or attest documents.
OEB- Official Entry Blank
One Per Household- One entry per resident mailing address.
OT- Web Slang- Off the topic
Postcard- Must be at least 3 1/2 x 5 to legally go through the
postal system
Postmarked By- Means your entry must be stamped by the postal service
for that particular date. Do not use office post
marking machines.
Potential Winner- Usually, winning letters come with this on them. It
means that until the sponsor or judging agency
receives your signed affidavit, they cannot verify you
as a winner.
SASE- Self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Second Chance- If a contest is giving away 100 stereos, like in a
game piece contest, and some are unclaimed, they
provide a means to distribute them through 2nd Chance.
These are usually good bets to enter.
Signed Entry- Your signature, not printed. Make sure it is your own,
don't sign for others.
Sweepstakes- A company is doing a promotion, giving prizes away.
#10 Envelope- Contrary to its name, it is an envelope that is
4 1/8 x 9 1/2
3x5 Index Card- Standard size index card, preferably blank
3x5 Paper- Regular blank paper
3 1/2 x 5 Index Card- A regular 4 x 6 index card cut down

To read more from Editor and Author Sandy Lovern, please visit
Sandy Lovern; and Sweepstakes Success