off the cuff

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of off the cuffnext
: without preparation : ad lib
speaking off the cuff

off-the-cuff

2 of 2

adjective

ˈȯf-ṯẖə-ˈkəf How to pronounce off-the-cuff (audio)
: not prepared in advance : spontaneous, informal
off-the-cuff remarks
off-the-cuff adverb

Synonyms of off the cuff

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Adjective

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of off the cuff in a Sentence

Adjective having gotten into hot water with some unfortunate off-the-cuff remarks, the candidate now limits himself to his carefully prepared campaign speech
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
This monologue, somewhat off-the-cuff and emotional, is one of the moments where the former disappeared and the latter became beloved. — Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 20 May 2026 While the role aligned with Arlaud’s political interests, he was most drawn to an off-the-cuff filmmaking approach that echoed his own process. — Ben Croll, IndieWire, 12 May 2026 But there was always a risk that Trump — not known for diplomatic nuance — might make an off-the-cuff remark that could have mammoth ramifications for Taiwan. — Will Weissert, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026 Property management teams are encouraged to converse with residents to gain their off-the-cuff thoughts about the value of different amenities, Khouri says. — Jeffrey Steele, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for off the cuff

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of off the cuff was in 1936

Rhymes for off the cuff

See All Rhymes for off the cuff

Browse Nearby Words

off-the-books
off the cuff
off-the-cuff
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Off the cuff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/off%20the%20cuff. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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