Read the friendly manual
Meaning
It's a polite, sometimes sarcastic, way to tell someone to consult the instructions or documentation for a solution to their problem.
Origin
This phrase is a common euphemism, born from the often-blunt acronym "RTFM," which stands for "Read The F***ing Manual." In the early days of computing and online forums, when users would frequently ask questions easily answered by basic documentation, the exasperated response "RTFM" became a widespread, albeit rude, staple. Over time, as internet etiquette evolved and a more user-friendly tone was encouraged, the phrase was softened into "Read the friendly manual." It allowed tech support personnel and experienced users to gently nudge newcomers towards self-sufficiency without resorting to profanity, transforming a harsh rebuke into a more palatable, even helpful, suggestion.
Examples
- Before you ask the team for help, remember to read the friendly manual; the answer is likely already there.
- My new gadget wasn't working, but once I decided to read the friendly manual, I quickly figured out the setup process.