Domain Names: abbreviations and substitutions

[thekingstooge]

I would like to ask peoples opinion on what they think about abbreviations and substitutions in domain names.
For example gaming websites will often substitute 's' for 'z' or similar. So called 1337 sites may replace letters with numerals such as fear = f34r. It has always interested me why these names are used. Do they attract people? Do they appeal to certain audiences. Often you will be able to tell more about a website than is intended due to substitutions used.
Now to abbreviations and acronyms. Using words such as lol or rofl in a title such as roflcoptors may attract people from certain backgrounds such as gamers but turn away people looking for something serious. Anyway submit your thoughts on this one...after all whats in a name? More than you'd think.

 

[JoshHendo]

Yes. I think it is a good idea to get those. I do get some of those every so ofen :D

 

[jamieneil]

It is opening up new doorways in domaining, let me just put it that way. And i also love the idea.

 

[Eric]

Hey thekingstooge Welcome to Namepros btw..

I do not think the use of abbreviations and/or characters are merley for certain audiences. As nothing more than their preferred name is taken. However, I see where you're going with this. As far as the gamers situation. I tend to see the f34r type domains targeted toward gamers :tri:

Right now, it's 9:33 am, and have had no sleep. I'll post more thoughts later. :zzz:

 

[AdoptableDomains]

My experience is that number for names in most cases don't work unless you also own the other version (confusion).

Sometimes the letter replacements to allow branding like starz (the cable network) for stars. It is nice if you can have both version though, but not an absolute depending on the keywords.