In general, avoid using phonetics on the repeater unless there is a specific reason to do so, such stating or clarifying a callsign under poor signal conditions. When phonetics are necessary, use the standard international phonetic alphabet.

Q-signals were developed as shorthand Morse code conventions for often-used phrases and questions, and as a means to convey information between stations who do not share a common language. They are generally not used in phone (voice) communications. Some Q-signals have become so commonplace in amateur radio that they do get used on phone, including repeaters, from time to time even though shorthand expediency and language barriers are rarely cause for using them. The use of "QSO" (typically pronounced Q-so) to refer to a conversation, "QTH" as shorthand for "station location", and "QSY" when changing frequency are a few Q-signals which, even though they should be avoided, may be tolerated on some repeaters.