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Region: US | Usage example: He answered off the cuff during the Q&A.

Off the cuff

Meaning

Spoken without preparation.

Usage

Used when improvising.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Possibly from speakers jotting notes on a shirt cuff; the origin is uncertain.

Recorded from the 1930s.

Related Idioms

Go off half cocked

Act prematurely or without enough preparation.

At the drop of a hat

Immediately, without hesitation.

No strings attached

Without conditions or obligations.

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.