What does FTW mean? What does this internet slang term stand for? The following lesson will explain how and when to use this text abbreviation with useful conversation examples and ESL picture.
Table of Contents
FTW Meaning
What Does FTW Mean?
“FTW” stands for “for the win”.
Throughout the years, this internet slang term has had a few meanings. Recently, the most common meaning of “FTW” is “for the win.” This is used in online games and normal, everyday situations where someone is describing what they did or what they used to get “the win.”
This phrase can be used by anybody, although it is more likely to be used among younger people and those who play online games. If someone from an older generation says it, it could have the older meaning. When using “FTW” online, most people can probably guess the meaning. When using “FTW” in a professional setting, it might be better to say “for the win” or spell it out just so that other people don’t think you are saying “f*** the world.”
What is FTW’s origin?
The origin of this texting acronym can be found in an American game show. In the show Hollywood Squares, “FTW” was used when a player was answering a question “for the win.” That means that the last question that contestants answered would result in their victory. In other words, thy are answering the question “for the win.”
Other Meanings
People can also use “FTL,” which means “for the loss.” This has the opposite meaning of “FTW.” Sometimes “FTL” can mean “faster than light (speed).” We can often see this meaning used in science, games, and science fiction entertainment.
Another meaning for “FTW” is “f*** the world.” This was used mainly by bikers in the 1970s and 80s. Other meanings that are less commonly used include, “free the whales,” “face the wall,” “for those wondering,” and “for the wine.”
Here is the list of other meanings:
- From The Wilderness
- For The Week
- Feel The Wrath
- Fashion The World
- France Telecom Wireless
- Forever Two Wheels
- For Those Wondering
- Fort Worth
- Fight To Win
- Free The Weed
- Free The Whales
- Forever Truly White
- Free to Watch
- Follow the Way
- For the Wolf
- For the Weak
Conversation Examples
Here are some examples:
Example 1:
- Gamer 1: We have been destroying after the last patch. I hope they don’t change it.
- Gamer 2: New patch FTW! That last game as sick bro.
- Gamer 1: Sure was. If they get rid of Destroyer’s superblock, I’m done.
- Gamer 2: Superblock FTW!
In this brief exchange between two gamers, “FTW” is used twice. In both cases, this slang word means “for the win.” Gamer 1 expresses how the latest version of the game has been good for his main character, Destroyer. Gamer 2 agrees with him stating, “New patch FTW!” This means that he thinks the new patch is aiding in their victory. Gamer 2 uses “FTW” again following up Destroyer’s ability, “superblock” to show that he thinks this particular ability is allowing them to win matches.
Example 2
- Co-worker 1: OMG, I’m freaking out. I thought I saved that presentation but I can’t find it!
- Co-worker 2: Relax, things will work out. What’s the file name?
- Co-worker 1: Q2 SWOT Analysis. It doesn’t matter though, it’s not there!
- Co-worker 2: I just pulled it up from WeCould, be sure you don’t delete your files!
- Co-worker 1: Wow, thank you! WeCloud FTW!
In this instance, we see this text abbreviation being used at work. Co-worker 1 is in a panic because she cannot find the file that she needs. Co-worker 2 is able to work out a solution for her. Since the WeCloud backed up her file and she was able to recover her work, she exclaims “WeCloud FTW!”
Example ‘For The Win’ 1
- Teammate 1: Hey do you think she can make it?
- Teammate 2: Yes I do!
- Teammate 3: Shes gonna do great.
- Teammate 2: Come one guys FTW!
Here you experience teammates talking about the game they’re about to play and pumping each other up. One finally ends it with the ‘For The Win’ shout out.
Example ‘For The Win’ 2
- Texter 1: My team is gonna beat yours!
- Texter 2: It’s the super bowl man, your team never makes it.
- Texter 1: Cowboys all the way!
- Texter 2: Idts
- Texter 1: Cowboys FTW.
Now we have to football fans talking about teams and one is convinced his team will win no matter what.
- idts – I Don’t Think So
Example ‘F**k The World’
A photo of a young man flipping the camera off would have a caption the reads, ‘FTW everyone sucks.’ Far from classy, yet very commonly seen making ‘F**k The World’ the most frequently used version of ‘ftw’.
Example ‘Forever Two Wheels’
An online post of a guy setting on his new motorcycle and caption reads, ‘Living the life FTW’. A happy biker will always show off his new bike and be fast to tell you ‘ftw’ means ‘Forever Two Wheels’.
Example ‘For Those Wondering’
- Forum User 1: Did her dog pass away?
- Forum User 2: I don’t think so?
- Forum User 1: I feel so bad.
- Forum User 2: Me too, how sad.
- Forum User 3: FTW, no her dog didn’t die.
Using an online forum or chat is where the ‘For Those Wondering’ version will and is most commonly found. Given the fact you are limited to how many words you can use per post makes people use any abbreviation combination they possibly can.
FTW Meaning Infographic
