Off the cuff
/ɒf ðə kʌf/informalUK · US
What does “Off the cuff” mean?
Off the cuff means without preparing what to say beforehand
A short answer at the end of a talk may be given off the cuff. The speaker is choosing the words in the moment rather than reading something prepared.
An off-the-cuff remark can be thoughtful or foolish. The phrase tells you about preparation, not the quality of the result.
When do people say it?
Usually describes speaking or an unplanned remark. It does not necessarily mean the speaker is careless or says something wrong.
“She spoke off the cuff when someone asked her to say a few words.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
A cuff is the end of a sleeve. One explanation links the phrase to quick notes written on a cuff, but the precise history is uncertain.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Off the cuff” in other languages?
Related idioms
- On the spur of the moment, without planning ahead, following a sudden impulse
Last updated 2026-11-13