People type “NF” or “/nf” in comments and posts while texting friends or using apps like Tumblr, Discord, X/Twitter, and Instagram.

The slang usually means “no force” or “not forcing,” which tells others there is no pressure to reply or agree to a request. 

The article explains the different meanings of “NF,” including some less common ones, and introduces other popular slang acronyms. Keep reading to learn more!

“NF” or “/nf” stands for “no force” or “not forcing” in messages and social media platforms like Tumblr, Discord, X/Twitter, and Reddit.

People use it to show they are not insisting when asking something or not pushing others when making a request. “/nf” is a widely used tone indicator online.

What Do NF and /NF Mean?

People use “NF” or “/Nf” in messages and social media to mean “no force” or “not forcing.”

When you send “NF” after a request or question, it means “no pressure.” It shows you are being polite and not demanding an answer or action.

Similarly, “/Nf” works as a tone marker on platforms like Tumblr and Discord, also meaning “no force” or “not forcing.”

Examples:

• “NF, but can you give me a ride tomorrow? I don’t want to bike to school.”

• “Anyone want to play Fortnite? /nf”

When to Use NF or /Nf?

Use “NF” when making a request or asking something personal.

If you ask a friend or family member for help, adding “NF” lets them know they don’t have to agree. It’s also helpful when asking a personal question so they know they don’t have to answer.

Examples:

• “Can you watch my dog next weekend? NF, I can find someone else if needed.”

• “Sorry about your breakup with Isaiah. What happened? No pressure, but I’m here if you want to talk. NF.”

Use “/Nf” in social media posts or comments to clarify tone.

“/Nf” is a typical tone marker that helps people understand your intent. When asking for something, requesting, or bringing up a sensitive topic, adding “/nf” shows no pressure to respond or take action.

Examples:

• “Can you tag me when you reblog my posts? /nf”
• “Everyone seems quiet today. Did something happen in the Discord server? /nf”

Tone markers like “/nf” help prevent misunderstandings in online conversations. They make it clear that you are not being rude or demanding. These markers benefit people who struggle with understanding tone, such as neurodivergent ones.

Other NF Meanings

No funds

In finance, “NF” stands for “no funds.” If someone writes a check or withdraws money without enough balance, the bank labels it as “NF.”

Nathan Feuerstein (rapper)

Rapper Nathan Feuerstein uses “NF” as his stage name. He became well-known in 2017 with the song “Let You Down.” People online mention “NF” when discussing him or his music.

Newfoundland

“NF” is a short form for Newfoundland, Canada. It was the province’s postal code until 2001, when it changed to “NL” after it became Newfoundland and Labrador.

Norman French

French speakers use “NF” to refer to Norman French. People in Normandy, France, mainly speak this regional dialect.

Not funny

People use “NF” in texts and social media to mean “not funny.” They type it when a joke fails, or someone treats a serious topic lightly.

Not fair

“NF” can also stand for “not fair.” People use it when someone breaks the rules or shows frustration, jealousy, or disbelief.

Nut-free

In the food industry, “NF” indicates “nut-free.” It helps those with nut allergies know that a dish contains no nuts. Restaurants and recipes often use this label.

Other Common Tone Markers

People use different tone markers to show emotion online. Since tone is hard to understand in texts, adding these markers helps others read messages the right way:

• /s – sarcasm

• /j – joking

• /gen – genuine

• /srs – serious

• /lh – light-hearted

• /pos – positive

• /neg – negative

• /p – platonic

• /r – romantic

Other Common Slang Acronyms

People often use these short slang acronyms in texts and on social media.

• IK – I know

• IDK – I don’t know

• BTW – By the way

• LMK – Let me know

• ILY – I love you

• NTY – No thank you

• FYI – For your information

• TBH – To be honest

• SNM – Say no more

• NFS – No funny stuff