Everything you need to know about “LF”—from its definition to how to use it in servers

If you’re a frequent Discord user or online gamer, you’ve probably seen the term “LF” pop up a lot. The meaning of this term is simple, but because it’s used in several other abbreviations like “LFG” and “LFP,” it can get confusing. Don’t worry. In this article, we’ll break down “LF” in the context of Discord (as well as a few other industries) to help you understand it. By the time you’re finished, you’ll be able to use and reply to “LF” any time, any server!

Things You Should Know

  • “LF” is a shorthand for “looking for” when it’s used on Discord and other online gaming servers. Players say “LF” when looking for games to join or specific items.
  • “LF” is usually the first part of other acronyms like “LFG” (looking for group/looking for game), “LFP” (looking for players), or “LF1M” (looking for 1 more player).
  • “LF” means “left field” in baseball and “lightface” in printing. It also has other definitions in more niche industries like metallurgy and microbiology.
Section 2 of 4:

Using “LF”

  1. 1
    Message “LFG” if you’re looking for a group to game with. If you’ve just logged onto Discord and are itching to find a good multiplayer game, text “LFG” to help you find a group or gaming party. Discord even has a server dedicated to “LFG!”
    • “LFG fighting, no items, quick match”
    • “LFG other novice players, medium difficulty”
    • “LFG general mod. I have 150 loot to share!”
  2. 2
    Text “LFP” if you’re trying to build a party. If you’re trying to build a gaming party or team to tackle a specific level, send “LFP” to find players to join you. Specify the game type and skills or items they might need to ensure your team is stacked.[2]
    • “LFP to beat the level 8 boss”
    • “LFP make sure you’re fully rested and have at least 3 healing potions ready”
    • “LFP elves and mages; we already have a thief and close-combat warrior”
  3. 3
    Send “LF1M” if you need just one extra person. Unlike “LFP” which means you’re searching for multiple players to join, use “LF1M” if you have just one extra slot open for a party or level. Some people may also message “LF1P” (looking for 1 player) which means the same thing.[3]
  4. 4
    When trading, type “LF” and specify what you want. If you’re in a Discord server for a game like Pokemon or Animal Crossing, where you trade items regularly, use “LF” before saying what specific items you’re looking for. This will help let others know how they can help you and prevent wasted time.
    • “LF all shiny Pokemon. Willing to trade master balls!”
    • “LF any water-types, ideally level 45 or higher”
    • “LF apples for my island. I’ll pay twice Tom Nook’s going rate!”
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Section 3 of 4:

Replying to “LF”

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    Invite someone to join your game if you see “LFG.” When a friend or worthy gamer messages your chat an “LFG,” message their profile and invite them into whatever multiplayer game you’re about to play. Make sure to include your Gamertag or any other necessary information, depending on the specific game, console, and skills required.
    • Stay safe when messaging people you don’t know. Don’t give out any personal information and, if their texts seem cryptic, block them.
    • Someone may also comment “LFG” as an abbreviation for “let’s freaking go!” If their tone feels more supportive than inquisitive, you can share their enthusiasm by typing “LFG” yourself.
    • “We’re wrapping up a team battle right now. Message me!”
    • “Perfect. LFP for a raid. Do you have the expansion pack?”
    • “If you’re level 9+, join our group!”
  2. 2
    Join a killer gaming party if someone texts you “LFP” or “LF1M.” When someone sends out a “LFP” or “LF1M” message, that means they’ve already got the game planned. Talk to them to see if the game they’re playing is up your alley and join if it sounds fun. Joining gaming parties is a great way to meet new people through the server!
    • “I’m down! What console?”
    • “Sweet. Link me and let’s kick some butt!”
    • “Cool. Requesting now. Do I need any armor or spells?”
  3. 3
    Offer your best trades if “LF” is followed by specific items. If someone is using “LF” in the context of a trade, see what they’re offering and give your best counter. Who knows? You may walk away with a rare piece that will make your other gamer friends jealous.
    • “I’ll give you 400 bells for the dress.”
    • “I’ve got a Squirtle level 18 if you want it!”
    • “That doesn’t seem like a fair trade to me. How about a rare candy instead?”
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Section 4 of 4:

Alternate Meanings for “LF”

  1. 1
    “LF” means “left field” in baseball. While “LF” is almost always an abbreviation for “looking for” on Discord, online, or over text, in baseball, its definition changes. “LF” is a shorthand for players, fans, and coaches for “left field.” Left field includes third base and other defensive fielders.[4]
  2. 2
    “LF” means “lightface” in printing. “LF” is also a common abbreviation for “lightface” in the world of printing. When printing a document, typefaces and fonts with especially light or thin lines are described as “lightface” (or “LF”).[5]
  3. 3
    “LF” has other industry-specific meanings. There are several other definitions for “LF,” though they are much less common outside of the specific fields they relate to. However, in certain industries “LF” could be shorthand for:[6]
    • “Light front” (Physics)
    • “Labor force” (Economics)
    • “Lethal factor” (Microbiology)
    • “Linux format” (Software)
    • “Ladle furnace” (Metallurgy)
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About This Article

Finn Kobler
Co-authored by:
wikiHow Staff Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Finn Kobler. Finn Kobler graduated from USC in 2022 with a BFA in Writing for Screen/Television. He is a two-time California State Champion and record holder in Original Prose/Poetry, a 2018 finalist for the Los Angeles Youth Poet Laureate, and he's written micro-budget films that have been screened in over 150 theaters nationwide. Growing up, Finn spent every summer helping his family's nonprofit arts program, Showdown Stage Company, empower people through accessible media. He hopes to continue that mission with his writing at wikiHow.
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Co-authors: 3
Updated: February 20, 2023
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Categories: Discord
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