Mary, you raise a very interesting question. To add to what Annette said I could propose that *f2f* (face-to-face) or ftf might fill work with *online*. Like her, I tend to use online/offline which works best for studies emphasizing online interactions, I agree. Distinctions used: online/offline online/f2f OL/IRL or RL virtual reality/physical space cyberspace/meatspace The last is controversial among some for perhaps obvious reasons. I have found it useful to discuss comparative features of the two realms. Virtual reality vs. physical space or physical reality have served us in times past but seem dated also, even more than online/offline. What terms do young people use? As you note, their realities are more seamless, what with phone, IM, maybe texting...And yet, meeting "in person" retains a distinct flavor of its own, methinks. best, andrea (andee)