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I suspect the chronology is something like RTFM -> TFM -> RTFA -> TFA, but the second and third might be switched. Dropping the R does introduce obscurity, but

I suspect the chronology is something like RTFM -> TFM -> RTFA -> TFA, but the second and third might be switched. Dropping the R does introduce obscurity, but being able to convey the underlying sentiment (that while the content could/should have been consulted, it seems as though it was not) without a verb allows for a nonconfrontational syntax similar to passive voice, but even moreso, and often without obvious "weasel" effect, to boot!

mekkkkkk 6y ago
Makes a lot of sense, thanks! Maybe it's also useful since the R is read explicitly as "read". Hence "they should instead be RTFM" sounds grammatically wrong. Breaking off the verb allows for a more natural read. It's funny how an abbreviation can carry more information than whatever it's short for.