- Used to offer information, an opinion, or advice tentatively, acknowledging that it might not be considered valuable or relevant by the listener.
- It implies humility or softens the potential impact of the statement. This is my contribution; take it or leave it.
- FWIW is the common abbreviation in text/online communication.
Explanation
Origin
- The phrase suggests that the speaker is unsure of the 'worth' or value of their contribution but offers it anyway.
- It's a way of hedging or showing deference.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Just sayin'... (Can sound more pointed or passive-aggressive)
- My two cents is...
- Take it with a grain of salt, but... (Suggests the info might not be reliable)
Milder/Standard:
- You might consider...
- Perhaps...
- One thought is...
- If I may offer a suggestion... (More formal)
Situational Appropriateness
- Common in both informal and semi-formal contexts.
- Useful for offering unsolicited advice or opinions politely.
- Shows humility and respect for the listener's autonomy.
- FWIW is strictly informal (text, email, online forums).
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Can sometimes sound slightly passive-aggressive or falsely modest if the context or tone suggests the speaker actually thinks their opinion is very important.
- Ensure it's used genuinely to soften the delivery of input.
Examples
- For what it's worth, I think you made the right decision. (Offering potentially unsolicited support)
- I know you didn't ask for my opinion, but for what it's worth, maybe try restarting the computer first. (Offering advice gently)
- For what it's worth, the traffic is usually lighter after 7 PM. (Offering information that may or may not be useful)
- FWIW, I saw a similar issue reported on their support forum. (Online context)
Dialogue
Liam: I'm really stressed about this job interview tomorrow.
Chloe: For what it's worth, you're incredibly qualified and great at what you do. Just be yourself.
Liam: Thanks, Chloe. I appreciate you saying that.
Manager A: I'm not sure how to handle this client complaint.
Manager B: For what it's worth, I dealt with something similar last year. Offering a small discount smoothed things over. Might work here too.
Manager A: Hmm, that's worth considering. Thanks.
Social Media Examples
- Forum Reply: FWIW, I tried method B and it worked perfectly for me. Maybe give that a shot?
- Tweet Reply: @User For what it's worth, your perspective on this is really valuable and well-articulated.
- Chat: Friend 1: idk what to do about this situation. Friend 2: fwiw i think you should talk to them directly
Response Patterns
- Acknowledgment, often appreciative of the input: Thanks., Okay, good to know., I appreciate that.
- Consideration of the input: Hmm, maybe you're right., That's an interesting point.
- Sometimes minimal response if the listener doesn't find it relevant, but usually polite acknowledgment.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- The listener considers the offered information or opinion.
- They might ask a follow-up question based on the input (Really? Did the forum have a solution?).
- They might simply say Thanks and incorporate (or ignore) the input in their decision-making.
- The speaker usually leaves it at that, having offered their two cents without pressure.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's used to offer input into an ongoing situation or discussion.
Intonation
- Often said in a slightly quieter or more humble tone.
- Relatively flat intonation, sometimes with a slight dip on worth.
- Followed by a slight pause before delivering the opinion or information.
Generation Differences
- Used across most adult generations. FWIW abbreviation is more common in digital communication across all ages familiar with netspeak, perhaps more initiated by younger generations.
Regional Variations
- Standard and widely understood in all major English-speaking regions.