abbreviation

FYI

eff-why-EYE

FYI (abbreviation) means For your information: used to flag something the reader may want to know but does not have to act on. Example: “FYI, the office will be shut on Monday.”

abbreviation

For your information: used to flag something the reader may want to know but does not have to act on.

"FYI, the office will be shut on Monday."

"She forwarded the invoice with a one-line note: FYI."

noun

A message or note passed on purely so that someone is kept informed.

"Treat this as an FYI rather than a request."

How to Use FYI

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishJust so you know.

When to use it

Fine in ordinary workplace email and chat, but it can read as curt or passive-aggressive when it stands alone at the top of a forwarded complaint.

Memory tip

Write it in capitals, with or without full stops; no articles are needed before it in the sentence-opening use.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

FWIW ICYMI NB →

Common pairings

just an FYI FYI only for your information

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

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____, the office will be shut on Monday.

Etymology

An initialism of for your information.

Origin: English

Rhymes for FYI

Yi Xiaoyi

See all rhymes for FYI →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between FYI and ICYMI?

FYI passes on information you assume is new to the reader. ICYMI, 'in case you missed it', points back to something already sent or published that they may not have seen. ICYMI is a gentle reminder; FYI is a first notice.

Is FYI rude?

Not in itself, but tone matters. A bare FYI on a forwarded complaint can sound like blame, so adding one line explaining why you are sending it usually reads better.

Can I use FYI in a formal letter?

Better not. In formal writing use 'for your information' in full, or rephrase as 'please note'.