Kevin
August 18, 2021
Common Questions
Do you know the definition of YMMV? This article will provide you with all of the information you need on the abbreviation YMMV, including its definition, usage, examples, and more!
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According to How to Geek, the term YMMV stands for your mileage may vary . This term is used frequently in social media and in text messages to show that there may be a difference in one person’s experiences versus another person’s. This is often used as a disclaimer to show that just because something was one way for the poster, does not mean it will be the same way for a commenter or person who sees the post. This is similar to the slang term AFAIK, which stands for as far as I know. You will frequently see this term on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter between peers, as well as in texting conversations on smartphones. Someone might say the following:
I really enjoyed the landscapes at the art museum when I went last week, but YMMV – I heard they’re switching out the exhibits at the end of Jun. to make room for Jul. exhibitions.
Take for example people talking about a selection of cameras. People’s mileage can vary with different cameras so much depending on what they are looking for – some people don’t care about subpar Full HD footage but need weather-sealed bodies to shoot compelling lifestyle images. Some early risers are looking for the perfect drone with good ergonomics that can upload images to the internet, but do not care about microphone ports, headphone jacks or the layout of the user interface. Some people think that great cameras have a fast aperture portrait prime, touch-sensitive selfie screen, current interchangeable lens cameras and capture high-quality video while others are just find with 24p video as long as it has a great image quality and high resolution in a high-quality camera. You should always read an in depth review about the greatest new product before dropping a ton of cash, from the new Sony ZV-e10, to premium tripods, to the Sirui SR-3204, the FLM cp34-l4, and more. Consult the latest buying guide from a digital photography review to get a sense of the wide dynamic range of cameras that exist. You might be looking for a good onboard mic, a vlogger’s dream with attractive features and a lot of bang, or one that has a great mobile photography platform and can take cool photos on a foggy misty morning.
According to Urban Dictionary, this phrase comes from American automobile commercials in the 70’s and 80’s in which your mileage may vary was shown in small print as a disclaimer. Car companies would advertise the highway and city MPG (miles per gallon) of their vehicles, but they needed to include the disclaimer to avoid getting sued. YMMV is often spelled as both uppercase and lowercase.
According to The Free Dictionary, YMMV can stand for much more than just your mileage may vary. This internet abbreviation has many different definitions. However, these shorthand terms have less popularity and should therefore be used sparingly. If you do decide to use one of these alternate YMMV meanings in instant messaging or on social media platforms, make sure that you provide the reader with the proper context so that they are not confused. When in doubt, use the full form of YMMV.
There are many different slang terms that you might see on the internet. The list from Zip Whip can help get you started.
Overall, the acronym YMMV means your mileage may vary. This is used as a disclaimer.
