Quick answer: 10th dentist (informal) — 10th dentist: person who holds an unpopular opinion. Meanwhile, ICYW (informal) — ICYW: in case you're wondering.
1. 10th dentist ↗
Category: Internet essentials
Register: informal
Regions: Online
10th dentist: person who holds an unpopular opinion.
When it fits: Choose this wording when the meaning above fits what you intend to say. Give the reader enough surrounding context to follow the example; if clarity matters more than the shorthand, use the plain-English wording instead.
When to avoid: Avoid assuming that a label reveals somebody’s motives or private behavior. If you are unsure how your words will be understood, explain the situation directly and ask a clarifying question rather than relying on the expression alone.
“During the heated debate, I called him a 10th dentist when he stubbornly defended his fringe theory despite overwhelming evidence.”
In plain English: During the heated debate, I called him a person who holds an unpopular opinion when he stubbornly defended his fringe theory despite overwhelming evidence.
2. ICYW ↗
Category: Internet essentials
Register: informal
Regions: Online
ICYW: in case you're wondering.
When it fits: Choose this wording when the meaning above fits what you intend to say. Give the reader enough surrounding context to follow the example; if clarity matters more than the shorthand, use the plain-English wording instead.
When to avoid: Avoid assuming that a label reveals somebody’s motives or private behavior. If you are unsure how your words will be understood, explain the situation directly and ask a clarifying question rather than relying on the expression alone.
“ICYW, the meeting starts at 3 PM, so you can plan your commute accordingly.”
In plain English: in case you're wondering, the meeting starts at 3 PM, so you can plan your commute accordingly.
Test both expressions in context
Quiz yourself on 10th dentist & ICYW ↗ Browse all slang comparisons →