OFC is a popular initialism seen in text messaging and social media. Usually, OFC means one of two things: “of course” or “original female character.”
Today, we’re breaking down what OFC means and how to use it.
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Contents:
- What Does OFC Stand for?
- What Does OFC Mean?
- Is the Abbreviation OFC Slang?
- Examples of OFC Used in Sentences
What Does OFC Stand for?
The answer to this question is a matter of context. It’s not like the FBI, which only stands for the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Rather, OFC has wildly different definitions depending on how it’s used.
In texting and internet slang, OFC means “of course.” Sometimes, the F stands for a particularly offensive epithet: of f* * *ing course.
In writing, OFC stands for “original female character.” When encountering this initialism in the wild, one of these two definitions is likely the one you are looking for.
Granted, there are other definitions, such as “Oceania Football Confederation,” and “Oxford Farming Conference.” But these are less likely to be the ones you’re after.
If you’re unsure, focus on the context. If you text a friend asking if you will play board games tonight, and they reply with “OFC,” they mean the sassy “of course.”
If your writer friend asks for constructive feedback on their OFC, they probably mean original female character.
What Does OFC Mean?
Let’s take a look at each common OFC definition in more detail. First up, we have the OFC definition “original female character.”
In fanfiction, an original female character is one created by a fanfiction author who does not exist in the source material.
For example, if I were to create a long lost grandmother for Harry Potter from the wizarding series—I’ll call her Midge Potter—she would be an original female character.
Though OFC originated in fanfiction, it need not apply exclusively to that realm.
Sarah Connor from The Terminator is an original female character. Catelyn Stark from A Song of Ice and Fire is one, and so is Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby.
Any character who identifies as female and is a new creation can be considered an OFC.
More often than “original female character,” OFC means either “of course” or “of f* * *ing course.”
Whether or not someone is using it with the swear word depends on the tone and the relationship of the people in the conversation.
When the tone is emphatic, and the people messaging have a relationship where swearing is acceptable, the abbreviation is probably referencing the more colorful OFC definition.
If it’s a more serious but still casual conversation, or the people messaging don’t usually swear in their communication, it’s a safe bet that it just means, “of course.”
Does OFC Have Different Meanings in Text, Snapchat, and TikTok?
OFC commonly appears in texting and on social media. Regardless of where you see it, the meanings are the same.
Pay attention to the context and tone to determine which OFC definition is meant.
For example, if you’re watching TikToks about a fandom or fanfiction, OFC probably refers to an original female character.
Otherwise, it will mean “of course” or its cursing counterpart.
Is the Abbreviation OFC Slang?
Though anyone can use OFC, it’s most appropriate to use among friends. The F in the middle is a profanity, so if you use this term with a stranger, you might very well rub them the wrong way.
One should almost never use OFC in an academic or professional setting (unless you’re texting a coworker who is also a good friend, or some similar situation).
ProWritingAid’s variety of writing style options ensure that your language matches the intended context; what you write in a casual text message wouldn’t be suitable for a business pitch.
OFC is generally acceptable in text messaging, though it’s probably more appropriate for friends than for, say, grandparents or bosses.
The same rules apply to email. When emailing a friend or someone with whom you have a good rapport, the term is fine. Otherwise, it’s probably best avoided.
Examples of OFC Used in Sentences
Let’s look at some examples of how to use OFC.
First, here are some examples of how you might use OFC to talk about a female character.
- I am concerned by the lack of OFCs in this author’s fiction.
- I’m going to go back and add another OFC to my novel.
- Rey from Star Wars is my favorite OFC of the past several decades in film.
Now, here’s a text example of OFC. It’s a safe bet that this example includes the F-word.
Friend 1: Are we watching a Nicolas Cage film tonight?
Friend 2: OFC we are!
Here’s another casual example of OFC where it means “of course.”
Friend 1: Are u wearing the little black dress on ur date?
Friend 2: OFC I am. it’s my lucky dress
If you’d like help tracking all the acronyms and initialisms in your text, try using ProWritingAid’s Acronym Report.
It shows you which acronyms and initialisms you have defined and where they still need defining, if anywhere.
Make sure you use the report, otherwise you might confuse your readers.
(This article was updated by Krystal N. Craiker.)
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As a seasoned language expert and enthusiast, I've delved deeply into the intricacies of linguistic nuances, particularly in the realm of text messaging and online communication. My understanding goes beyond mere surface-level awareness, extending to the subtleties and evolution of language in digital spaces.
Now, let's break down the concepts used in the provided article about the initialism "OFC":
1. OFC Stand for:
- Contextual Nature: Unlike rigid acronyms like "FBI," the meaning of OFC depends on context. It can signify either "of course" or "original female character." Other potential meanings, such as "Oceania Football Confederation" or "Oxford Farming Conference," are less likely in everyday communication.
2. OFC Meanings:
- Original Female Character (OFC): In the context of fanfiction, an original female character is one created by a fanfiction author that doesn't exist in the source material. This extends beyond fanfiction to encompass any new female character in a creative work.
- Of Course (OFC): In casual conversations, OFC often means "of course." The addition of a certain offensive epithet depends on the tone and relationship between the conversing individuals.
3. Different Meanings Across Platforms:
- Consistency Across Platforms: Whether used in texting, Snapchat, or TikTok, the meanings of OFC remain consistent. However, the context and tone become crucial in determining which definition is intended.
4. Is OFC Slang?
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Appropriateness: OFC, particularly with its potentially offensive connotation, is most suitable for informal communication among friends. It's advised against using it in academic or professional settings unless the relationship with the recipient allows for such language.
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Proper Context Usage: Language context matters, and tools like ProWritingAid can assist in maintaining appropriateness. The acceptance of OFC in written communication depends on the familiarity and comfort level between the communicating parties.
5. Examples of OFC Used in Sentences:
-
Original Female Character Examples:
- "I am concerned by the lack of OFCs in this author’s fiction."
- "Rey from Star Wars is my favorite OFC of the past several decades in film."
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Of Course Examples:
- "Friend 2: OFC we are!" (In response to watching a movie)
- "Friend 2: OFC I am. it’s my lucky dress." (Referring to wearing a specific dress on a date)
6. Writing Tips and Tools:
- ProWritingAid's Acronym Report: The article suggests using ProWritingAid's Acronym Report to track and define acronyms in your text, emphasizing the importance of clarity in communication.
In conclusion, understanding OFC goes beyond its literal definition, encompassing the fluidity of language in different contexts and platforms. It's essential to navigate these nuances to effectively communicate and avoid potential misunderstandings, whether in creative writing or casual conversations.
