According to the passage, the function of abbreviations …………

Abbreviations are shortened forms of words or phrases. In the past, when all writing was done by hand, abbreviations saved time and space. Today, when so much is printed about so many subjects, they serve the same purpose. Certain types of abbreviations, e.g. UNESCO, which stands for United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, are also spoken, if easily pronounced. The use of abbreviations dates back to ancient times, but widespread use of them has been most acute in the 20th century, which is directly related to the vast increase in information.