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Region: Global | Usage example: Complaining about Wi-Fi speed is a first world problem

First world problems

Meaning

Trivial complaints in affluent societies

Usage

Used to highlight privileged grievances

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Modern commentary about luxury frustrations

Became internet slang in the early 2000s

Related Idioms

First come, first served

Those who arrive earliest get served before others.

Set the world on fire

Do something remarkable or highly successful.

Small world

Surprising connections appear unexpectedly.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.