off the cuff — without preparation or prior thought; spontaneously; impromptu
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: without preparation or prior thought; spontaneously; impromptu
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɔːf ðə kʌf/
Example Sentences
- The comedian's best jokes were always off the cuff.
- When asked about his secret recipe, the chef gave an off-the-cuff answer: 'Love and a pinch of panic!'
- Her off-the-cuff presentation impressed the board more than prepared speeches.
off the cuff
ADVERB[/ɔːf ðə kʌf/]
without preparation or prior thought; spontaneously; impromptu
without preparation or prior thought; spontaneously; impromptu
Off the cuff, he handles questions both tough and rough!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated in 1930s America from the practice of speakers delivering impromptu remarks without formal notes. Orators would jot down brief keywords on their shirt cuffs as minimal prompts rather than relying on a complete written script, leading to the metaphorical use of 'off the cuff' to mean speaking extemporaneously.
Breakdown
off (away from, without) + the + cuff (shirt sleeve). The phrase combines 'off' meaning 'away from' with 'cuff,' referring to the shirt cuff where speakers would scribble notes, so 'off the cuff' literally means speaking without relying on those sleeve notes.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The comedian's best jokes were always off the cuff.”
“When asked about his secret recipe, the chef gave an off-the-cuff answer: 'Love and a pinch of panic!'”
“Her off-the-cuff presentation impressed the board more than prepared speeches.”
“I can't give you an exact figure off the cuff, but I'll check and get back to you.”
📚Related Words
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