What does AFK mean?
Definition, Use Cases, Examples

AFK Meaning

AFK stands for Away From Keyboard.

AFK is a notice to others that a person will be away from his/her computer or offline.

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How is AFK used? Use Cases & Examples

Frequently used in gaming, the slang term AFK alerts other players of one’s absence from the game. If a player isn’t moving, he/she is assumed to be AFK. Variations of AFK include: Brain afk (when you space out), afk-assassination(killed in a game while you were still), ninja afk (go afk without warning).

Examples of how your teen might use the slang term AFK:

-Why did you take over for Sam?
-He’s afk for a few minutes.

-Have to help with dinner. AFK for 1 hour.

-Hey, let’s prank Emma while she’s afk!

-Why isn’t Hunter moving?
-He’s ninja AFKing again.

How to Identify if your child is using the AFK slang word

You might learn your child is using this slang term by chance when a text pops up on the phone screen. But while the slang term AFK is harmless, other teenage slang terms could indicate that your teen is talking about risky behaviors or communicating with potentially dangerous people.

Having a parental control app on your child’s phone will give you peace of mind by alerting you to your child’s exposure to risks encountered on their phone. With a parental control app installed on your child’s phone, you have the control to set alerts to help your teen avoid the pitfalls of predators, drug dealers, and other negative influences. Having the ability to vary the level of monitoring gives you the power to choose what is right for your child, and these levels can easily be adjusted at any time.

How to talk with your child about use of the AFK slang word

AFK is a harmless abbreviation in internet slang and is also a great jumping-off point to discuss online communication and relationships. While playing interactive, online games can create and solidify remote friendships, it can also put your child at risk for online predators. Here are some ways you can talk with your teen about online communications:

  • Have you heard someone target a younger player with stalker-ish questions? If so, what did you do?
  • How did you become gaming friends with that nice kid in Missouri?
  • Do gamers who meet online ever get to meet in person?
  • What’s the largest number of people you’ve ever played a game with?

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