tfw
2 synonyms for tfw, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Abbreviation — Used online to introduce a described emotion or situation the writer expects others to recognise, typically as a caption on an image or meme.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
mfw
that moment when
How to use tfw
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
tfw you
tfw no
tfw when
Informal internet and social media use only. Usually written in lower case and followed by a clause with no full stop, and never used in speech or formal writing.
Etymology
An initialism of 'that feeling when', also read as 'that feel when'.
Full origin of tfw →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between tfw and mfw?
tfw stands for 'that feeling when' and describes an emotion in the abstract. mfw stands for 'my face when' and specifically introduces a reaction image showing how the poster looked or felt. mfw almost always accompanies a picture or GIF.
Does tfw mean 'that feel when' or 'that feeling when'?
Both readings are in use and mean the same thing. 'That feel when' reflects the older forum habit of using feel as a noun, while 'that feeling when' is the more standard expansion.
