RTFAQ

What Does RTFAQ Mean in a Text?

The Quick Answer

RTFAQ means "Read The Frequently Asked Questions."

More Observations...

The abbreviation RTFAQ is used with the meaning "Read The Frequently Asked Questions" as an instruction to an enquirer to refer to the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page of a website. The use of RTFAQ is not restricted to messages from support personnel to customers or users. RTFAQ is often used by anyone who doesn't have the requisite knowledge to answer a question, or who is tired of being asked questions that could easily be answered by referring to the FAQs. As such, the use of RTFAQ often indicates annoyance or impatience on the part of the sender.

Image for RTFAQ

When I write RTFAQ, I mean this:

RTFAQ. You will usually find the answer on the Frequently Asked Questions page.

Summary of Key Points

"Read The Frequently Asked Questions" is, by far, the most common meaning for RTFAQ when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)

RTFAQ
Definition:	Read The Frequently Asked Questions
Type:	Abbreviation
Guessability:	2: Quite easy to guess
Typical Users:	Adults and Teenagers

Examples of RTFAQ in Sentences

Here are examples of RTFAQ in conversations:

• Neil: I'm not sure how to return the parcel.
• Mick: You should RTFAQ. It's bound to say there.
(here, RTFAQ indicates a desire to be helpful.)

• Rod: Right, I've done that. Do you know why the blue light is on?
• Alison: RTFAQ! You ordered the damn thing!
(here, RTFAQ indicates annoyance on the part of the sender.)

An Academic Look at RTFAQ

As it is pronounced using its individual letters (i.e., "Arr Tee Eff Ay Kew"), RTFAQ is classified as an initialism abbreviation. Initialisms are different to acronyms, which are spoken like words. RTFAQ is typically used as an imperative phrase (i.e., an order).

What Did We Say before Texting and Social Media?

Before the digital era we didn't have FAQ pages. We would probably have said something like "Read The Instructions" instead of using RTFAQ with the meaning "Read The Frequently Asked Questions."

Example of RTFAQ Used in a Text

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