tfw
Tfw (abbreviation) means used online to introduce a described emotion or situation the writer expects others to recognise, typically as a caption on an image or meme. Example: “tfw you finally finish a project at 3am”
How to Use Tfw
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn internet shorthand for 'that feeling when', used to caption a relatable moment.
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.
tfw is followed by a description of a situation, not a full sentence with a main verb — 'tfw your train is cancelled', not 'tfw your train was cancelled and I was late'.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ you finally finish a project at 3am
Etymology
An initialism of 'that feeling when', also read as 'that feel when'.
Synonyms
View more →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.
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