Did a friend tell you they’re going to your favorite restaurant for dinner? You could text them ‘ftw’ as a suitable response. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this acronym.
Meaning
The acronym ‘FTW’ stands for ‘For the Win.’ It’s a statement of happiness or excitement at something working out as you expect. If you say ‘for the win,’ you’re referring to a positive outcome. It’s a common online reply to posts or comments, showing an enthusiastic emphasis of agreement from the other user.
‘FTW’ can have a genuine or sarcastic connotation, depending on the context of the conversation. Typically, people will use ‘FTW’ in text-based communications like text messages and chats, and they use the full version in verbal exchanges.
‘FTW’ has several alternate meanings. One of the more popular alternate meanings is ‘F**k the World.’ You would use this meaning when describing your attitude to people in life, usually after having a bad day or after someone betrays you.
Example Usage
"I had no idea a new pair of running shoes would make such a difference to my times. These new Nike's are FTW."
"Pizza FTW tonight. I feel like lounging out on the couch and chilling all evening. There's no reason for us to go out anywhere for dinner."
"Doritos FTW. I was so hungry, and this snack will help me get to dinner this evening. I love this cheesy flavor. It's so good."
"Better Call Saul FTW. This show is so good and definitely better than Breaking Bad. The characters have so much depth."
"I think we have to choose Montgomery's FTW. It's the best place to have the wedding reception. They have such a beautiful venue and amazing service."
"Coffee FTW. I don't know what I would do without my morning cup of joe. Coffee is what makes me function. Without it, I'm useless."
"Florida FTW. It's got the best weather, and the water is warm. That's where we need to go on vacation this summer. Are you in?"
"Water ftw. I felt so thirsty earlier and drank half a gallon of water. Now I need to head to the toilet if you'll excuse me."
Origin
Language experts are unsure of the origin of the acronym ‘ftw’ (for the win). No evidence points to when the phrase first appears in English or who coined its use. However, some experts believe the term originates from text culture in the early 2000s.
The first recorded entry of ‘ftw’ into the Urban Dictionary was December 16, 2005. However, it’s thought the full saying ‘for the win’ was in use as early as the 1990s. The saying transitioned to ‘ftw’ after people shortened popular sayings in text messages to save on typing. The phrase is still popular today as its acronym.
Phrases Similar to FTW
- Good move.
- Good job.
- Well done.
Phrases Opposite to FTW
- Bad move.
What is the Correct Saying?
- ftw.
- FTW.
- For the Win.
Ways People May Say FTW Incorrectly
The acronym ‘FTW’ has several meanings. However, the most common and popular use of the term is to abbreviate the saying ‘For the Win.’ Using alternate definitions of the term may confuse the people you’re speaking to in chat or messaging.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase FTW
You can use the acronym ‘FTW’ in online communications. It suits text messages and message boards, online chats, and forums. Typically, it’s a reactionary statement to someone saying something you want to hear. For instance, if someone told you that their new skin in Fortnite is increasing their in-game performance, you could use ‘FTW’ to describe their good foresight for the purchase.
You’ll use ‘FTW’ in online communications and say the entire phrase ‘For the Win’ in verbal exchanges with others. Typically, people spell the term in upper-case, but it’s common for people to use the lower-case version. Usually, typing it in upper-case adds emphasis to its use.