As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had my fair share of experiences with alcohol, both in terms of consumption and observing its effects on others. While it may not be foolproof, there are some signs that can indicate if someone is drunk over text. However, I must emphasize that these signs should be taken with a grain of salt, as everyone's texting style varies and it's not always easy to accurately determine someone's state of intoxication through text alone.
1. Typos and Misspelled Words: One of the most common indicators of being drunk while texting is the presence of frequent typos and misspelled words. Alcohol can impair motor skills and coordination, which can lead to sloppy texting. So, if you notice your friend suddenly struggling with basic spelling or making a lot of typos, it could be a hint that they've had a few drinks.
2. Incoherent or Rambling Messages: Another telltale sign is when the person starts sending messages that are incoherent or seem to lack logical flow. They may jump from one topic to another without any apparent connection or make excessive use of emojis or exclamation marks. This can be a result of alcohol affecting their ability to think clearly and communicate coherently.
3. Overly Emotional or Sentimental Messages: Alcohol has a way of loosening inhibitions and intensifying emotions. Drunk texting often involves overly emotional or sentimental messages that may not be characteristic of the person's usual communication style. They may express their love, gratitude, or even anger more intensely than they normally would.
4. Delayed Responses or Lack of Response: When someone is under the influence of alcohol, their response time may be significantly delayed or they may not respond at all. This could be due to impaired cognitive function or simply being too preoccupied with their current state to engage in a coherent conversation.
5. Confusion or Misunderstanding: Alcohol can impair judgment and comprehension, leading to confusion or misinterpretation of messages. If you notice the person repeatedly asking for clarification or responding in a way that suggests they didn't fully understand what was said, it could be a sign of intoxication.
It is important to note that these signs are not definitive proof of someone being drunk, as there could be other factors at play. It's always best to approach the situation with empathy and understanding, rather than jumping to conclusions or making assumptions. If you suspect someone may be intoxicated, it's crucial to prioritize their safety and well-being above anything else.