BY BRUCE APAR
MAYOR, PENNYSAVER COMMUNITY

Lately, when I write the acronym ASAP, I can't help wonder if the recipient is reading that the same way I intend it.

Acronyms can be funny little devices, at least this one in particular.

When you see ASAP, don't you associate it with a task getting done immediately? I tend to too.

But the words those initials represent are As Soon As Possible, which means not necessarily right now, or even tomorrow, but whenever I practicably can get to the task.

I may begin to spell out ASAP instead of using shorthand to ensure my audience takes from it what I mean by it.