* Abbreviation: This is the most general term for a shortened form of a word or phrase. It can be used in many contexts, such as writing, texting, or academic papers.
* Acronym: A word formed from the initial letters of a phrase, often pronounced as a single word (e.g., NASA, NATO).
* Initialism: Similar to an acronym, but pronounced as a series of letters (e.g., FBI, USA).
* Symbolism: This refers to the use of symbols to represent objects, ideas, or concepts. It can be used in many different ways, such as in art, religion, or writing.
* Shorthand: This is a system of writing using abbreviations and symbols to represent words or phrases. It was often used for note-taking and transcription.
* Stenography: A specialized form of shorthand that uses symbols and abbreviations to represent words and phrases at a faster pace.
* Code: This is a system of writing using symbols or letters to represent words or ideas, often for the purpose of secrecy or communication within a specific group.
To give you a more specific answer, please tell me more about the system you're interested in. What context are you using it in? What kind of abbreviations or symbols are being used?