Not safe for work (NSFW) is Internet slang or shorthand used to mark links to content, videos, or website pages the viewer may not wish to be seen viewing in a public, formal, or controlled environment. The marked content may contain graphic violence, pornography, profanity, nudity, slurs, or other potentially disturbing subject matter. Environments that may be problematic include workplaces, schools, and family settings.[1][2] NSFW has particular relevance for people trying to make personal use of the Internet at workplaces or schools that have policies prohibiting access to sexual and graphic subject matter.[3] Conversely, safe for work (SFW) is used for links that do not contain such material,[4] especially where the title might otherwise lead people to think that the content is NSFW.[5]

The similar expression not safe for life (NSFL) is also used,[6][7][8] referring to content which is so nauseating or disturbing that it might be emotionally scarring to view. Links marked NSFL may contain fetish pornography, gore, or murder.[9]

Some websites, such as Reddit and OnlyFans, give users the option to designate their content as NSFW in order to warn others of its inappropriate nature.[10]

See also

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  • Internet filter – Software used to restrict access to unsuitable content
  • Internet pornography – Any pornography that is accessible over the Internet
  • Shock site – Website intended to offend and/or disgust its viewers
  • Rule 34 – Internet slang regarding pornography

References

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  1. ^ "The Meaning of NSFW and How to Use It". Lifewire. Archived from the original on 2018-10-21. Retrieved 2018-10-21.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  2. ^ "NSFW Meaning. What does NSFW mean?". MyEnglishTeacher.eu Blog. 2017-12-29. Archived from the original on 2018-10-21. Retrieved 2018-10-21.
  3. ^ "How Not To Get Caught Looking at NSFW Content on the Job". Complex. Archived from the original on 2018-10-21. Retrieved 2018-10-21.
  4. ^ What is SFW (Safe for Work) from Computer Hope
  5. ^ "Check out this Reddit thread dedicated to the hottest sex stories". Happy Mag. 2021-01-19. Retrieved 2021-01-19.
  6. ^ "How to watch NSFW/NSFL content safely and discreetly". Mindanao Times. February 14, 2024. Retrieved November 16, 2024.
  7. ^ Pullen, John Patrick; Citizen, Jessica (June 17, 2016) [May 3, 2012]. "116 Teen Text Terms Decoded for Confused Parents". Time. Retrieved November 16, 2024.
  8. ^ Martinez, Fidel (June 1, 2021). "The shock and aww of Reddit's 50/50". The Daily Dot. Retrieved November 16, 2024.
  9. ^ "Reddit Basics". reddit.zendesk.com. Archived from the original on 10 December 2019. Retrieved 17 September 2019.
  10. ^ "Reddiquette". Reddit Help. Retrieved 2022-03-21.
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