/msg
Send a private message only the target can see.
Overview
What is the /msg command?
The /msg command (also /tell or /w) sends a private message to one or more players that only they can see. It's the command behind server whispers and direct messages.
Because it accepts target selectors, you can DM the nearest player, a random player, or everyone matching a condition without exposing the message in public chat.
When to use it: Use /msg to whisper privately to a player, give discreet hints in a map, or DM from a command block.
At a glance
Syntax
/msg <targets> <message>See it
What it does
Anatomy
Every part, explained
- 1
/msgSends a whisper. /tell and /w work too.
- 2
<targets>Who receives it - a name or selector.
- 3
<message>The private text to send.
Your turn
Try it yourself
Copy & paste
Examples
/msg Steve meet me at spawnWhisper directly to Steve.
/tell Alex on my way/tell is the same command.
/msg @a server restartingWhisper every player at once.
Avoid these
Common mistakes
/msg Steve/msg Steve helloYou must include a message after the target.
/msg hello Steve/msg Steve helloTarget comes first, then the message.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
- How do you private message in Minecraft?
- Type /msg <player> <message>, e.g. /msg Steve meet me at spawn. Only that player sees it.
- What's the difference between /msg, /tell and /w?
- They are aliases — all three do exactly the same thing, so use whichever you find easiest to remember.
- Can you reply to a whisper quickly?
- Many servers add a /r (reply) command, but in vanilla you message back with /msg <player> directly.
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