Graphics Interchange Format, or GIFs, have become almost commonplace in digital communication in the 21st century. But you might have wondered – what is the correct way to pronounce the GIF? As it sounds, or with a “J” sound – spelled like “JIF”? According to Steve Wilhite, the man who developed the GIF in 1987, it is supposed to be pronounced with a soft “G,” as if it were spelled “JIF”. But the story doesn’t end there.
So many people were pronouncing GIF with the hard “G” that in 2012, the Oxford Dictionaries USA enacted GIF as the word of the year and stated:
“GIF may be pronounced with either a soft g (as in giant) or a hard g (as in graphic).”
Of course, Wilhite later contested this when accepting a lifetime achievement award at the Webby Awards in 2013. But whether you prefer to side with Wilhite or opt for Designer Aaron Bazinet’s preference for the hard g, the choice is yours!
How To Make A GIF
Luckily if you have a smartphone, making a GIF is relatively easy! Both Apple and Android have the technology to do so with your media files, and some applications make it easy for you to create your own! Take a look at how to create GIFs for either Apple, Android, or through a smartphone app:
Apple/iOS:
- Go to the Shortcuts App
- Select “+” beside Starter Shortcuts in the center of the screen
- Search for “Make GIF” and add the shortcut
- Click on the Shortcut in your Shortcuts Gallery, and select the Live Photo you want to turn into a GIF
Android:
- Use Google Photos
- Select “Animation”
- Select the photos from your library that you want to be part of the GIF, and tap “Create”
- Some Samsung Galaxy phones include a GIF-making feature for photos and videos in the Gallery app
Smartphone Apps:
- Giphy software for Android and iOS
- ImgPlay
- GIF Maker
- GIF Editor Pro
- Video to GIF
Hopefully, now you’re well-versed in the history of the GIF and the tools on creating your own GIF. So, reach out to us and let us know if you’ve created any and which side of the debate you land on!
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Kristen Burgess is the Marketing Specialist at Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. She has five years’ experience in curating content for digital platforms, social media contributions, and supporting marketing campaigns and strategies. Before joining the APC wolfpack, she worked in digital marketing for software as a service, giving her keen insight into the types of professionals APC hires today. In addition, she likes to stay up-to-date on the most relevant trends within the technology industry through thought-provoking podcasts and newsletters while paying attention to industry leaders’ trends. In her spare time, she serves on the Management Team and helps craft communications for the Junior League of Durham and Orange Counties.
