We explain what the acronym NSFW stands for, where they appear and what their function is. Also, examples of catalogable content such as NSFW.
What does NSFW mean?
In the jargon of Internet, is meant by NSFW (acronym of English Not Suitable for Work, either Not safe for work, i.e. “Not appropriate for the office”) to anyone contents, whether visual, audiovisual, or written, that would be inappropriate for all to see in a formal setting, such as work, school, or a family gathering. This is usually because it is content that is controversial, violent, pornographic, or potentially offensive.
These acronyms are often used in the headings of websites, forum posts or emails, as a warning, so that its content is not disclosed or openly consulted. Variations may also appear PNSFW (Possibly Not Safe for Work, i.e. “Possibly not appropriate for the office”), when there is a margin of doubt regarding the content; O well LSFW (Less Safe for Work, “Less Office Appropriate”) for content that is less risky, but may still be inappropriate.
Examples of NSFW content
Examples of content that can be cataloged as NSFW are:
- Material erotic or pornographic.
- bloody stuff, violent or capable of hurting susceptibilities.
- Humorous material that is not traditional or that risks being offensive.
- Confidential, secret or strictly personal material that should not be consulted except in privacy.
- Any other content whose disclosure or exposure may harm the person who receives and consults it.