interjection

FML

ef-em-EL

FML (interjection) means Written after describing something that has gone wrong, to express weary frustration or self-pitying despair, usually with a note of humour. Example: “Missed my flight by four minutes. FML.”

interjection

internet slang, vulgar Written after describing something that has gone wrong, to express weary frustration or self-pitying despair, usually with a note of humour.

"Missed my flight by four minutes. FML."

"Spilled coffee on the laptop the day before the deadline, fml."

How to Use FML

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA way of saying my life is a disaster right now, half-jokingly.

When to use it

Profane and casual; almost always tacked on at the end of a post or message rather than used mid-sentence.

Memory tip

The complaint is usually about something small and annoying. Using FML about a genuine tragedy reads as flippant.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

SMH → TFW →

Common pairings

FML moment seriously, fml

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Test yourself on “FML” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Missed my flight by four minutes. _____.

Etymology

An initialism of fuck my life.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

SMH kill me now great, just great

Related Words

smh OML

Frequently Asked Questions

What does FML stand for?

Fuck my life. It is posted after some minor disaster to express exaggerated, often jokey, despair.

What is the difference between FML and SMH?

FML is about something bad happening to you, while SMH — shaking my head — is disapproval of something someone else did or said. FML is self-directed; SMH points outwards.

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